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MEMOIRS 



RET. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D., 



SILAS N. KENDEICK 



S. W. ADAMS 



PASTOR OF THE FIRST BAPTIST CHUKCH OF CLEVELAND, OHIO. 



Help Lord, for the godly man ceaseth ; for the faithful fail from among the children 
of men." — Ps. xii. 1. 



PHILADELPHIA: 
AMERICAN BAPTIST PUBLICATION SOCIETY, 530 ARCH ST. 

1860. 






%\\.\1 






PREFACE. 



The preparation of the Memoir of the late Dr. Ken- 
drick, was originally committed to other hands. The 
daughter was selected as the proper one to portray the 
father's character, and hand it down to future genera- 
tions. It is to be deeply lamented that this fondly 
cherished work, which she was so competent to exe- 
cute, was frustrated by an early death, and before a 
single line had been written. At the earnest solicita- 
tion of the son, the late Silas N. Kendrick, whose 
memory is fitly embalmed in the following pages, the 
writer assumed the task of authorship, the fruits of 
which are now submitted to the Christian public. 
The original plan of a separate memoir of the father 
has been so far modified as to allow the record of 
the life of the son and of the father in one volume. 

As a slight extenuation of the faults of the work, 
it is due to say, that it has been executed amid the 
pressure of pastoral and pulpit labors. In the tribute 
paid to the son's memory, mutual friends will recog- 
nize the hand of one whom Silas 1ST. Kendrick in life 

1* . 



VI PEE FACE. 

loved as a brother, and who counts it a brother's privi- 
lege to hang a wreath upon his tomb. 

For all the materials furnished by various friends 
whose names are mentioned, together with the kind 
wishes and prayers for the success of this undertaking, 
the author now tenders his grateful acknowledgments. 
As a slight memorial of departed worth, he would now 
consecrate this volume to the cause of Christ, praying 
that the interests which were promoted by the lives 
of the sainted Kendricks, may be still advanced by the 
record of them now delivered to the reading public. 

Cleveland, April, 1860. 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 



Birth — Parentage — Conversion — Profession of Religion— Spiritual 
darkness — Happy deliverance 13 



CHAPTER II. 

Call to the ministry — Preparatory study with Rev. Mr. Burroughs 
of Hanover — with Dr. Burton of Thetford — Essays — Declines a 
License — Journey to Franklin 23 



CHAPTER III. 

Notice of Dr. Emmons — His Habits — Qualifications as a Theolo- 
gical Teacher — Number of Students — Plan of Instruction — 
Themes examined — Authors consulted — Method of Study — 
Certificate — Removal to Boston — Drs. Baldwin and Stillman — 
Revival — Emotions on leaving Boston — Occasional Preaching... 31 



CHAPTER IV. 

Visit to Brown University — Sickness — Reflections — Bellingham 
Baptist Church — Mr. Kendrick as a Supply — Visit to Boston — 
Habits of Preparation— Social Intercourse — Neighboring Minis- 
ters—Journal — Visit to Hanover and other Places — Return — 
Request to visit the Baptist Church of Hoosick — Preaching in 
Lansingburgh, Troy, and other Towns — Call to supply at Lan- 
singburg — Call to settle at Bellingham — Farewell sermon 41 



Vlll CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER V. 

Removal to Lansingburgh — The Church — Its prospects — Shafts- 
bury Association — Its Anniversaries — Christian Hospitality — 
Call for Settlement — Ordination — School Teaching — First Bap- 
tism — Pastoral Work — Ministerial Intercourse — Quarterly Con- 
ferences — Missionary Spirit — Missionary Bodies — Their Fields, 51 



CHAPTER VI. 

Early attempts for a Convention of Associations — Foreign Mis- 
sions — Foreign Missions unite brethren widely separated by 
Distance — Home Missions — Mr. Kendrick a Missionary — Tours 
—Labors — Incident— Providential Preservation — Call to a New 
Settlement — Call to visit Churches — Views of Support to Mis- 
sions — Marriage — Family — Close of labors in Lansingburgh — 
Farewell Sermon 59 



CHAPTER VII. 

Removal to Middlebury — Prospects of the Field — Middlebury Col- 
lege — Numerous and Varied Labors — Extension of his Field — 
Monkton Embraced — Epidemic — Duties thereby Multiplied — 
Deaths in Middlebury — Deaths in his own Family 69 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Death of Mrs. Kendrick — Extract from his Journal — Letters of 
Condolence — Specimen of a Week's Labor — Visit of Luther 
Rice — Co-operation of Mr. Kendrick — War — Its Effects upon our 
Northern Frontiers — Naval Battle on Lake Champlain — Striking 
Contrast 77 



CHAPTER IX. 

Embarrassments in the Field — Thoughts of Removal — Request to 
visit Sangerfield — Correspondence — Visit to Sangerfield — Madi- 



CONTENTS. IX 

son Association — Re-engagement at Middlebmy — Numerous 
Applications — Correspondence with the Baptist Churches in 
Eaton — Visit— Call — Close of his Labors in Middlebury — Re- 
vival 87 



CHAPTER X. 

Entrance upon a New Field — Prospects of Usefulness — Morris- 
ville Church the Mother of Missionaries — Labors at length 
confined to Eaton Church — Theological Lectures — Revival in 
Eaton — Letter of Rev. S. B. Page — Second Marriage— Reunion 
of his Family 95 

CHAPTER XL 

Ministerial Education — Colleges — Bounty of Thos. Hollis, Jr. — 
Supply of Ministers — Action of Philadelphia Association — In 
The South — Union in support of Brown University — Interrup- 
tion from the American Revolution — Plan of aid to Beneficiaries 
in the South — In the North — A new Era — Education Societies — 
Origin of New York Baptist Educational Society — Religious 
Intelligence —A Weekly Sheet — The First Fruits of Education 
Societies 107 

CHAPTER XIL 

Origin of Hamilton Seminary — Its Founders — Place and Time of 
Meeting — First Subscription— Agents — Field — First Student — 
Consociation — Peculiar Character of the School — Amount of 
Subscriptions the First Year — Location at Hamilton 116 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Private Teachers — Collection of Students — Opening of the School 
— First Teacher in it, Rev. Dr. Hascall — Co-operation of Ver- 
mont — Extended Sphere — Patrons — Graduation of the First 
Class — Growing favor of the Seminary — New Edifice — Means of 
Furnishing the same — Theological Seminary in the City of New 
York — Scholarships — Consecration services of Mr. and Mrs. 
Wade, as Missionaries to Burmah 128 



X CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

Deatli of prominent Members of the Board — Death, of Mrs. Kendrick 
— Current Expenses — Provision for the same — Scholarships — 
Legacies — Providential Aid — Enlargement — Donation of Deacon 
Payne — Incident — Site of University Buildings — Tours of Dr. 
Kendrick — Increase of Teachers — Change of Vacations — Com- 
pletion and Opening of New Edifice 139 



CHAPTER XV. 

Occupancy of New Edifice — Gradual Changes — Additional Teach- 
ers—Course of Study Extended — Preparatory Department — 
Another Professor — Change and Reduction of Vacations — Bene- 
ficiaries — Manual Labor — Current Expenses — Salaries — Raising 
Funds — Providential Relief 148 



CHAPTER XVI. 

Influence of Revivals in the Seminary — In 1828 — In 1830-31, Em- 
braced in a letter of Rev. S. B. Page — Third Marriage of Dr. 
Kendrick 155 



CHAPTER XVII. 

FROM 1834—1839 INCLUSIVE. 

Moneys Expended and Invested — Enlargement — Additional Teach- 
ers — New Building — Boarding Hall — Manual Labor — Annual 
Expenditures — Debt— Expedients to remove the same — Provi- 
dential Favor — Karen Scholarships — Tour of Townshend and 
Bright — The Three Departments fully developed — Change of 
Plan in the Seminary — Dr. Kendrick' s views thereon — Testi- 
mony of Mr. Edmunds — Remark of Father Bennet — Co-operation 
of New Jersey and Pennsylvania 165 



CONTENTS. XI 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

FROM 1840—1848 INCLUSIVE. 

Other Changes — Dr. Kendrick's views thereon — Popularity of the 
New Measures — Library — Philosophical Apparatus — Aid from 
Female Education Societies — Scholarships in Albany — Sum To- 
tal — Need of Aid — Hindrances — Floating Debt — Liquidation — 
Growing Field — Changes in Faculty — Decease of Early Patrons 
— Revivals — Summary of Labors — Closing Year of Dr. Ken- 
drick's Labors — The Removal Question—Concluding Remarks... 178 

CHAPTER XIX. 

Doctrinal Views — Doctrines Modified — Causes of Corruption — 
Landmarks of Calvinism Defined by Edwards — Influences Ad- 
verse to Sound Doctrine — Total Depravity — Infidelity in Yale 
College — Promoters of Revivals — Influence of Revivals upon 
Doctrines — Dr. Kendrick's Partiality for the Strong Doctrines 
— Views of Dr. Emmons — Dr. Kendrick's Dissent — Total De- 
pravity — Regeneration — Sovereignty of God — Election — God's 
Ultimate End — Atonement 191 

CHAPTER XX. 

Kindness towards those who Dissented from him — Class of 1830 — 
Views as a Baptist — Divine Providence — Illustrations— Striking 
Instances of Interposing Providences 203 

CHAPTER XXI. 

Plan of Discourses — Choice of Texts — Their Suitableness — In- 
stances — Doctrinal — Not a Favorite with the Masses — His Mind 
Deliberate — Anecdote — Appearance in the Pulpit — Occasionally 
Eloquent — Treatment of Controverted Subjects — Instance — Spe- 
cial Occasions — Valedictory Address — Sermons Scriptural — 
Counsel to Inquirers 211 



XII CONTEXT S. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Congeniality — Frankness — Caution — Conversational Grift — Chris- 
tian Gentleman — Pacificator — Bearing his own Trials — Illustra- 
tion — Gaining the Confidence of others — A Case in Point — 
Home — Hospitality — Correspondence — Letters of Rev. A. Ten 
Brook and James Edmonds 220 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

Person — Family Characteristics — Counsellor — " Chatauque Coun- 
cil" — "Speculative Free Masonry" — Reproof — Corresponding 
Secretary — Solicitor — Titles — A Conservative — Leading Ques- 
tions — Anniversaries — Tour to Michigan — Indian Missions — 
Extracts from his Journal— Family Bereavement 230 



CHAPTER XXIY. 

Cause of his Illness — Confined to his Room— Journey to New 
York City — Surgical Examination — Affecting Scene — Interview 
with Religious Friends — Return — Difficulties Increased — Last 
Visit to the Institution— Letter from Dr. Church — His own Let- 
ters — Letter from Professor Bliss — His own Letters 243 



CHAPTER XXY. 

Illness Continued — Letters — Letter to the Students — Letter from 
Dr. Comstock — Reply— Other Letters— To Rev. A. Ten Brook — 
To his Children 257 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

Prevailing state of Mind — Raptures — Correspondence — Testimony 
of an Eye-witness — Attack of Dysentery — Closing Scene — Fu- 
neral Services — Report entered upon the Minutes of the Madison 
Association — Notice in the Annual Report of the Education 
Society— Brief Survey 272 



MEMOIRS 



REV. NATHANIEL KENMICK, D.D. 



CHAPTER I. 

Birth — Parentage — Conversion — Profession of Religion — Spiritual 
Darkness — Happy Deliverance. 

Nathaniel Kendrick was born in Hanover, Grafton 
county, N. H., on the 22d of April, 1YTT. In a family of 
nine children, consisting of seven sons and two daughters, 
he was the oldest son, and the second child. He was blest 
with a worthy and pious parentage, and his early life was 
passed, and his character formed, under auspices favorable to 
vigorous habits, both of body and mind. No pampered heir 
of wealth, he was a stranger to those false notions of life 
which wealth too often engenders. Not bred to ease and 
luxury, he was early taught the primitive lesson given to our 
great progenitor, " In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat 
bread." 

His parents were among the first to penetrate the forests 
of their valley town, and though not favored themselves be- 
yond the ordinary privileges of their times, were yet diligent 
in securing to their children the best advantages which a New 
England settlement afforded, when emerging from a wilder- 
ness state. His father, Samuel Kendrick, was a native of 
Coventry, Connecticut. As the ancestral line may be traced 
with probable accuracy for several generations, we here in- 
sert the following record. 



14 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

The first name that appears in the genealogy, is that of 
Edward Kenrick, who married a grand niece of Archbishop 
Cranmer, the noted martyr in the days of bloody Mary. 

It must here be observed, that in the lapse of two hundred 
years, the orthography of the name has undergone a slight 
change. The d is an interpolation. Even the great grand- 
father of the subject of this memoir, omitted the d in his 
spelling of the name, as the old town records of Coventry 
bear witness. 

Edward Kenrick, the great grandson of the ancestor first 
named, was an eminent merchant of London and Rotter- 
dam, and in 1652, Lord Mayor of London. He had three 
sons, George, Thomas, and John. The last named of the 
brothers, born in York, England, in 1604, emigrated to this 
country. He was a member of the first church in Boston in 
1639, and in 1656 moved to his farm in the south part of 
Newton, at a place called, to this day, " Kenrick's Bridge," 
on the banks of Charles river ; which place remained in the 
possession of the descendants one hundred and seventy years. 
Dying at the age of eighty-two years, John Kenrick left three 
sons, viz., Joseph, John, and Elijah. Through the last/ 
named, the subject of our biography traced his descent. 

Elijah Kenrick had three sons and three daughters. Of 
the three sons, John, Elijah, and Ebenezer, the last set- 
tled in Brookline, having one son and one daughter. His 
son Nathaniel settled first in Brookline, afterwards in Coven- 
try, Conn., and finally in Hanover, N. H. His last removal 
was made in the year 1111, when his children had mostly 
reached maturity. Here, in a new and wilderness region, 
he met the privations incident to pioneer life for about five 
years, when he was suddenly killed by the falling of a tree. 

Of the ten children of Nathaniel Kendrick, three of whom 
died in infancy, Samuel, the father of the subject of our work, 
was the fourth child. About three years after the removal 
of the family to the Granite State, Samuel was united in mar- 
liage to Miss Anna Smith. The fruit of this union was a family 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. IX 15 

of nine children, seven sons and two daughters, all reaching 
maturity save one, a son, the youngest in the number, who 
died under three years of age. Three only of this numerous 
household, two sons and a daughter, now survive. The 
average life-time of the five adults that have died, is above 
sixty-one and a half years, and the tendency to longevity in 
the family was still more evident in the parents, the mother 
reaching the advanced age of eighty-one years, and the father 
ninety-one years. 

Both the parents were members of the Congregational 
church, and were highly esteemed for their uprightness, kind- 
ness, benevolence, and uniformly consistent deportment.. 
They were among the finest specimens of the primitive New 
England character. The father, besides high moral qualities — 
his incorruptible and stern integrity, was distinguished by a 
clear and sound practical judgment, great energy and execu- 
tive capacity, and, in short, by that combination of qualities 
which would have made him an influential and leading man 
in an} 7- community. During his residence in Hanover he 
served as one of the selectmen of the town for fifteen years, 
and, by the suffrages of the people, he represented the in- 
terests of his district for two years in the State Legislature. 
In the revolutionary struggle with the mother country, being 
on the frontier, contiguous to the Indians and the British 
forces in Canada, he stood as a minute man, and was fre- 
quently called out against the Indians and the British forces, 
that were operating under Gen. Burgoyne upon the border 
settlements. 

Of the wife, it is sufficient to say, that she was worthy of 
such a husband. The devotion of the parents to their chil- 
dren was ever distinguished by the greatest tenderness and 
affection. Ample proof of this is discovered in the corres- 
pondence of the family, which bears faithful testimony to 
parental love. It was a highly valued privilege to receive 
the welcome epistles from their absent children. Nor was 
the occasional visit to the home circle suffered to pass with- 



16 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

out a merited recognition of the favor, as a token of provi- 
dential kindness. If the year revolved without a journey to 
the homestead, when only the Green Mountains divided the 
children from the parents, it was a long and almost intolera- 
ble period to await the circuit of two suns before a re-union. 
These mutual attachments bespeak the charms of the paren- 
tal hearth-stone, and become a living commentary upon the 
value of that early seat of domestic happiness, which was 
the cherished home of Nathaniel. 

We have no remarkable incidents, with which to spice the 
record of this period of the future man. We have in fact 
little to record of Mr. Kendrick during his minority, or up 
to his twentieth year. Justice, however, requires us to state, 
that he gave early proofs of more than ordinary intellectual 
strength, and developed a character that bore the impress of 
strong common sense and sterling principle. His native 
town was the seat of Dartmouth College, planted a few 
years before his birth, and a nourishing seedling from the 
first ; and its founding was coincident with the commence- 
ment of a scries of religious revivals, that continued for 
several years to bless the towns in that vicinity. To this 
hall of learning his early steps were not directed. The 
candidates for classical study were then few. In his boy- 
hood he enjoyed no literary advantages beyond the provi- 
sions of a common district school. But in this, "the people's 
college," all his educators were not found. Of various 
character, they studded the pathway of his youth. They 
were all around him, in the charming and diversified scenery 
of his native town. Its noble river, the Connecticut, flowed 
gracefully on its border line, just one mile from his birth- 
place, and rising from its banks were gentle elevations, that 
swelled into undulating hills, as they receded from the inter- 
vale. Here, before the woodman's axe had leveled many of 
the forests, were some of Nature's master pictures set before 
the youth, to cultivate his taste, enrich his imagination, and 
draw forth other latent powers within him. To these power- 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 17 

ful educators we have only to point, and say, they were in 
the presence of the lad till he put on the ripeness of the 
man. 

That he availed himself of the benefits of the sanctuary, 
and the school-house that ever rose by its side on New 
England soil, is to be presumed from the fact that he was 
chosen to act as an instructor of youth, before he entered 
upon the direct preparation for his public vocation. Devoid 
as the season of his youth may have been of those special 
facilities which we now enjoy, it was by no means a lost 
opportunity to him, for he was taking on strength for coming 
years in a proper physical development. The young man 
was initiated into the habits of industry and the principles of 
integrity ; and their companionship was retained through life. 
Besides, he was brought up to understand the value of social 
affections, and to know that there are other springs of enjoy- 
ment and usefulness than those merely intellectual. 

That which we are most anxious to know is concerning the 
new birth which Mr. Kendrick experienced about his twen- 
tieth year. The period in which this occurred may be set 
down as among the darkest of New England history in reli- 
gious declension. The country had not yet recovered from 
the depressing influence of the Revolutionary struggle, which, 
as is usual with war, had wrought disastrously upon the 
churches. A half century had elapsed since the great awak- 
ening promoted by the labors of Edwards, Whitefield, and 
their cotemporaries. But the people were on the eve of 
another visitation, which, when it fully came, brought zeal, 
vigor and health to very many churches in the Eastern States. 

The Baptist churches were then few in number, sparse in 
membership, and, by necessary consequence, the means for 
stated religious services were quite inadequate. In the town 
of Hanover, the Baptist church was numerically small and 
pecuniarily feeble. It had no house of worship, nor any 
one to serve it statedly in the ministry of the word. Under 
these disadvantages, however, it pleased God to make use of 

2* 



18 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

this feeble body of believers, to promote a revival of religion 
in the neighborhood in which Mr. Kendrick resided. The 
school-houses were the places in which they ordinarily met 
for their services on the Lord's Day. Their remoteness from 
the long established places of worship, gave opportunity for 
many to turn into these assemblies, who otherwise might not 
have visited them. Some individuals who had no partiality 
for the denomination, and were by education and habit averse 
to this religious body, became, through frequent attendance 
in these revival meetings, hopeful subjects of renewing grace. 

The manner in which this revival commenced, has been 
well described by Prof. A. C. Kendrick, D.D., in an obituary 
notice written soon after the decease of his venerable relative. 

" The first subject of conviction was Clark Kendrick, a 
cousin and intimate friend of Nathaniel, and who, for about 
twenty years, was a useful Baptist minister in Vermont. Being 
engaged one evening in a religious conversation with a pious 
friend with whom he was boarding, Mr. Kendrick requested 
him to relate his religious experience. He did so, and in the 
course of his narrative, deep convictions fastened themselves 
upon the mind of the youthful listener, which followed him 
until his troubled conscience found peace in the blood of the 
Lamb. This was the commencement of a general and pow- 
erful work of grace, as the fruit of which, about forty per- 
sons connected themselves with the Baptist church. 

" The subject of this memoir remained for some time with- 
out any deep impression. He had indeed advised his cousin, 
when under the agonies of conviction, not to shake off, but 
rather cherish his religious impressions, and expressed a de- 
sire to join him in the ways of righteousness. Still he found 
in himself no inclination to yield to the claims of religion, 
until one evening he was invited home by another unconver- 
ted young man, who said to him : 'Our old friends are all 
leaving us, and you are my only remaining companion.' This 
remark awakened in Mr. Kendrick's mind a train of solemn 
reflections, and he could not contemplate, without shuddering, 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 19 

the prospect of being left to find his sole companionship 
among the enemies of God. His convictions were deepened 
by listening to a sermon which filled him with apprehensions, 
lest the season of meixw might be past to those who had 
hitherto remained impenitent. Thus the horrors of despair 
blended themselves with the pangs of an awakened con- 
science, and with a deep and crushing sense of the desert of sin. 
Still he earnestly supplicated mercy, and at length after 
about ten days passed in the deepest distress, he had mani- 
festations of the divine purity and excellence so clear and 
ravishing, that he felt able to praise God, even in his condem- 
nation. He beheld the glory of God diffused over the face 
of nature, and with his spirit relieved from its burden of 
guilt, he could not but rejoice, whatever might be his own des- 
tiny. Still, he as yet indulged no hope that he had experienced 
a saving change, and it was not till he listened to the experi- 
ence of other converts, that he recognized in his own exer- 
cises the marks of a ' like precious faith,' and felt the evi- 
dence gradually forcing itself upon him, that he had ' passed 
from death unto life.' The word of God was precious to 
him, and he enjoyed the society of the saints, and especially 
of those who had just been brought into the kingdom." 

It will be seen from the above sketch, that the conversion 
of the subject of this memoir was strikingly coincident with 
that of Edwards, the great theologian, with whom also, in 
his views of Bible doctrine, he was mainly, if not entirely, 
in unison. His discovery of the perfections of God, and of 
the character of Christ, upon which he delighted to dwell 
through life, were then remarkably vivid. It is not often 
that young converts volunteer the remark, that they feel 
able to praise God even in their condemnation : and it may 
be taken as an indication of the depth and thoroughness of 
Mr. Kendrick's Christian experience, that he was constrained 
to express his views of admiration of the justice as well as 
the mercy of God. In the medium through which he then 
saw nature, he sympathized also with the great Divine. He 



20 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

rejoiced in the works of God, as well as in his government. 
There was an oblivion of self, and a magnifying of the 
sovereign God. He felt himself to be a grievous sinner 
justly condemned, and that Christ alone was his complete 
and perfect Saviour. It is said of Samuel J. Mills, that 
immediately after his conversion, he could not refrain from 
exclaiming, "O glorious sovereignty!" "0 glorious sove- 
reignty!" With this he had quarreled for two full years. 
Such views, attained in the hour of spiritual birth, must 
cleave to the soul in its after history. Mr. Kendrick had 
good and substantial reasons for retaining a strong partiality 
for the doctrines of grace which he delighted to advocate, 
not as a polemic, but as one who had drawn consolation 
from them, and knew their power in his own soul. He 
would have been false to his own experience, as well as to 
his views of scriptural truth, not to have given them promi- 
nence, both in his theological instruction, and in the preach- 
ing of subsequent years. While we are free to ascribe the 
whole merit of salvation to grace alone, we deem it highly 
instructive to notice often the manifestations of divine favor 
in conversion, and mark their adaptedness to the varied 
temperaments and complexions of human character. In a 
nature prone to ecstacies and sudden transports of joy, the 
remarkably clear experience which Mr. Kendrick had, might 
have superinduced an overweening confidence, perilous to 
the soul's welfare ; but in a nature that ever leaned to cau- 
tion, it wrought no disadvantage. It gave rise to no spiritual 
indolence. It fostered no extravagance. It rather begat 
humility, and constrained the new-born soul to aspire after 
higher attainments in the Christian life. There is good 
reason to believe that he early obtained that precious view 
of Christ as an Infinite Saviour, and that captivating view 
of the gospel as worthy of all acceptation, which were dwelt 
upon through life with unfailing delight, and which, particu- 
larly in his last illness, were the frequent themes of dis- 
course. 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 21 

The next important event with Mr. Kendrick was the 
public avowal of his faith in Jesus. The pen which has 
already described his conversion, has fitly delineated this 
solemn transaction : 

"With the joys of discipleship, he soon began to feel the 
obligation of its duties, and to think of connecting himself 
with the visible Church of Christ. The subjects and the mode 
of baptism naturally excited much attention and controversy 
in that section, and many whose early predilections were all 
on the side of Pedobaptism, yet felt themselves obliged, in 
opposition to the teachings of their parents, and the current 
of popular opinion, to cast in their lot with the humble and 
almost despised Baptists. Mr. Kendrick's mind was not of 
a nature to allow so grave a subject to pass without due 
consideration. He manifested, in his mode of treating it, 
the caution and conscientiousness which eminently charac- 
terized all his subsequent history. Sprinkled in infancy, and 
brought up in the Pedobaptist faith, all his early associations 
and attachments lay in that direction, while on the other 
hand, he could not regard with indifference the people among 
whom he had received his spiritual birth. Feeling the need 
of aid in his inquiries, he procured from the pastors, both of 
the Baptist and Congregational churches, — with the latter of 
whom he was boarding, and on whose preaching he chiefly 
attended, — a statement of their reasons for their respective 
opinions. Still dissatisfied, he read through the New Testa- 
ment, marking and carefully weighing every passage which 
related to the subject of baptism. The result was, that after 
an anxious and protracted inquiry of about nine months, 
he came to regard his early baptism as unscriptural, and 
united with the Baptist Church. He was baptized in April, 
1*788." 

Soon after his public profession of religion, he fell into an 
unhappy state of doubt bordering upon despair. It bore a 
striking resemblance to that condition in which father Ben- 
nett found himself, by the occurrence of his singular dream, 



22 REV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K, D. 0. 

noted by his biographer, although it continued but a brief 
time. Mr. Kendrick was overpowered with the conviction 
that instead of being what he had avowed himself so recent- 
\y, a follower of Christ, he was no less than a reprobate. In 
his distress he bethought himself of methods of relief. He 
set out to call upon his faithful pastor, and acquaint him with 
the state of his mind, hoping thereby to gain some consola- 
tion. On his way, however, the following scripture arrested 
his thoughts, " Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and 
maketh flesh his arm." This incident induced him to post- 
pone his visit to his spiritual adviser for a while, and when 
he finally recovered his determination to seek an interview 
with him, it was with the resolution that he would accept of 
no comfort* that came not directly from God. Accordingly 
he repaired to the pastor, and when interrogated by him about 
his spiritual welfare, instead of indicating that he had any 
reason to hope that he was an accepted believer, he replied 
that "he was a poor miserable sinner." Thereupon the man 
of God and the minister of Christ, took the Bible in silence, 
and referred the victim of despair to these words of James. 
" My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temp- 
tations ; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh 
patience." With these words came the glad hour of deliver- 
ance. Light dawned upon his mind, and the comfort which 
he obtained was so obviously of God, that he went on his 
way rejoicing. This early experience of a severe conflict 
with the enemy, became instructive to himself, and prepared 
him to labor understandingly for the edification of others. 



REV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K, D. D. 23 



CHAPTER II. 

Call to the ministry — Preparatory study with Rev. Mr. Burroughs of 
Hanover — with Dr. Burton at Thetford — Essays — Declines a License 
— Journey to Franklin. 

As we enter upon a more advanced stage of Mr. Ken- 
drick's life, the materials are still too scanty to allow an 
accurately delineated picture of the man. To some, this part, 
could it be fully and faithfully portrayed, would be most of 
all instructive in practical lessons of duty ; for it embraces 
the period, in which the solution of the grave question of 
entering the ministry for his proper and appropriate vocation, 
was sought and determined. The minutiae which we omit 
from necessity, could be detailed only by the man himself, 
who was the conscious subject of the deeply wrought convic- 
tions of duty to become an ambassador for Christ. The 
dearth which we deplore, pertains really to a heart history 
which must be left out, save as the overt acts and avowed 
decisions of the man suggest the supplement. 

A momentous change had now transpired with Mr. Ken- 
drick, both in his apparent and real relation to God and to his 
fellow-man. In the judgment of charity he had passed from 
death unto life, and he had publicly signified his faith in a 
crucified Redeemer by union with His people. Standing now 
before the world as a professed disciple of Christ, he was 
solemnly and publicly pledged to do all in his power to 
advance the cause of his Lord. It was but reasonable to 
expect that with a mind like his, thoroughly conscientious and 
full of benevolent impulses, he should inquire how and where 
he should spend his life for the glory of God, and to promote 
the welfare of man. It was not the habit of the convert 
hastily to set aside a claim that pressed itself upon the heart, 



24 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

especially when it looked towards tliem inistiy of reconcilia- 
tion. To all precipitate action lie was continually averse, 
and a question of such magnitude as to place him in public 
life, was not to be decided by caprice or slight reflection. Mr. 
Kendrick's situation favored deliberate and careful action. 
He remained for nearly four years after his public profession 
of religion with his father, dividing his time between the farm 
and attendance in an academic school, or discharging the con- 
genial duties of an instructor. Thus ample opportunity was 
afforded him to anticipate and make a due estimate of all the 
difficulties involved in his assumption of the sacred functions 
of the preacher. Strong dissuasives were offered in his mea- 
gre acquisitions, so disproportionate to the work, and not the 
least, in conscious unfitness for the holy office ; so that for a 
time he rejected the idea of direct engagement in this service 
as beyond the sphere and range of his special qualifications. 
This was not productive of rest and peace of mind, for his 
convictions remained awaiting a righteous decision. So long, 
too, as the matter of personal duty was not definitely settled, 
Mr. Kendrick did not feel like making any systematic and 
direct efforts at preparation for the ministry. 

At length, however, the subject assumed a solemnity and 
sacredness of import almost irresistible ; his mind yielded to 
its claims ; and thenceforth sought to meet its ideal concep- 
tion, of so high and holy a work. His idea of the nature and 
grandeur of the preacher's mission, forbade his entering upon 
it without some degree of the requisite discipline. It was 
rashness, in his view, to seek at once to instal himself in 
the pastoral office. Whence should he draw resources that 
should edify the church, perfect saints in holiness, and attract 
and guide the wandering sinners to the cross of Calvary ? 
In measuring the demands of such a task, he recognized the 
necessity of securing settled views of Christian doctrine, and 
habits of close and consecutive thinking, united with a heart 
thoroughly versed in vital godliness, and hence he responded 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 25 

to the heavenly call only by seeking the best preparation 
which his circumstances would permit. 

Having by his own industry acquired about $300, he made 
arrangements to receive instruction from private teachers. 
His initiatory course was entered upon under the direction of 
the Rev. Mr. Burroughs, pastor of the Congregational church 
in Hanover. With him he continued for a term of four 
months, applying himself assiduously to preparatory studies. 
To appreciate the steps then taken, we need to be reminded 
that a course of theological training was in the early part of 
the present century pursued under widely different auspices 
from those which mark it at the present day. There were 
at that time no theological schools within the United States 
belonging to the Baptist denomination, and but two of 'any 
kind in the country. One of these was located at New 
Brunswick, N. J., and the other at Canonsburg, Pa. The 
latter belonged to the Associate Church, the former to the 
Dutch reformed. Several colleges had been established, but 
Brown University was the only one under the patronage and 
control of the Baptists. 

Candidates for the ministry who entertained the purpose 
of systematic study in divinity, found it necessary to resort 
to some pastor's residence, and there receive such hints and 
suggestions as the active incumbent might find time to fur- 
nish. It may be reasonably conjectured, that as the public 
functionary set over a parish had his arduous duties to dis- 
charge, aside from attention to divinity students, the seasons 
of intercourse between teacher and pupil were both irregular 
and fragmentary, and therefore less valuable. Pastors there 
were, in those days, of gigantic minds, stored with learning, 
and imbued with the spirit of earnest, humble, and sincere 
piety. Besides being thoroughly read in the schools, they 
were trained in scholastic controversy. They were accus- 
tomed to measure lances in debate. Not a few acquired 
fame in polemic discussions. In addition to their attain- 

3 



26 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

ments, which were the fruits of severe study, they had great 
practical skill as preachers. 

With the privilege of personal choice in the selection of 
instructors, Mr. Kendrick placed himself under divines whose 
views were not in strict harmony with his own. This yielded 
him the advantage of calling into requisition the exercise of 
his own discriminating judgment in the conclusions reached, 
Besides the teacher already named, he placed himself suc- 
cessively under the instructions of Drs. Burton, Emmons, 
Baldwin, and Stillman ; all men of eminence. 

Of the benefits derived from these instructors, we may de- 
termine something from the qualifications and habits of the 
men, from the exigencies of the times in which they lived, 
served, and ruled, and still more from the spirit, application 
and ability of the pupil. 

His first theological guide was the Rev. Asa Burton, of 
Thetford, Yt. It was with the advice of his father, that Mr. 
Kendrick sought his instructions. For a series of years 
Dr. Burton was in the practice of receiving students into his 
family, and conducting their studies in theology. He was 
regarded as one of the most able, learned, and profound di- 
vines in the valley of the Connecticut. For more than half 
a century he officiated as the pastor of the church in the 
town above named, and Tracy observes, in his history of the 
Great Awakening, " that to him must be ascribed, more than 
to any other man, the extensive prevalence of sound religion 
in that part of New England. " 

With this theologian Mr. Kendrick commenced his course 
in divinity, July 5th, 1802, and continued under his instruc- 
tion till near the close of the ensuing October. That his 
time and opportunities were improved in a manner creditable 
to himself, and promotive of his cherished objects, is evident 
from the fruits of his investigations. In his brief pupilage 
under this excellent divine, he surveyed the leading subjects 
embraced in the ordinary field of theological study. These 
were taken up in logical order, and the sentiments adopted, 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 27 

and the reasons in their support, were embodied in disserta- 
tions, lucidly expressed and carefully written. These papers 
all evince thoroughness, and a mastery of the subjects under 
examination, such as may well surprise us. They are, in 
style, concise, and full in argument ; none of them shrinking 
into mere skeletons. They are liberal in length, and com- 
prehensive, some even to prolixity, in their range of discus- 
sion. Though more than half a century has stamped its 
traces upon the manuscripts, they still give occular proof that 
the author of these essays elaborated them with genuine en- 
thusiasm. He manifestly took pleasure in writing upon such 
themes, and executed his labor with a zest which took from 
it entirely the character of a drudgery. Hence a recurrence 
to these essays, in after years, must have awakened satisfac- 
tion, since the sterling manner in which they were cast would 
not demand a reconstruction. The neatly written sheets, 
compact in form, and firmly stitched together, bear their years 
without mutilation or decay, and may be handled almost as 
well as bound volumes. They are fine models for students 
now, who can command stationery far superior to that pro- 
duced a half a century since. 

The merits of teacher and pupil are still farther disclosed 
in the questions put by the former, and the ingenuity and 
skill with which they are treated by the latter. On the doc- 
trine of church membership, and gospel order, it must be 
borne in mind, they were at issue. It may have been, and 
doubtless was, singularly fortunate, that he who, in subse- 
quent years, was to act as a guide to students in divinity, 
who would themselves be guides to many, should have the 
privilege of sitting at the feet of no second-rate man, but a 
champion of the ecclesiastical order to which he belonged — ■ 
the Congregationalists of New England. 

The gist of the difference in their opposing views was 
elicited by the following questions : 

" 1st. What warrant had Abraham to circumcise himself 
and his house ? 



28 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

" 2d. What was the design of circumcision ? 

" 3d. What is meant by one thing's coming in the room 
and stead of another ? 

" 4th. Did not God command Abraham's seed to circumcise 
their male children ? 

" 5th. Has Abraham a seed among the Gentiles, if he has, 
who are they ? 

" 6th. Are not God's commands binding till revoked by 
Himself; and is not a revelation of God's will necessary to 
revoke a command ? 

" Tth. What is the design of baptism ? 

" On the supposition that Infant Baptism, is not valid, 
how are the following questions to be answered : 

" 1st. Infants were the subjects of a religious rite under the 
Old Testament. What reasons can be assigned why they 
should not be the subjects of a religious rite under the New 
Testament, such as baptism ? 

" 2d. If it was the design of God that they should not be 
the subjects of the religious rite of baptism under the New, 
as they were of circumcision under the Old Testament, what 
reasons can be given why God has not given express infor- 
mation on this subject in the New Testament ? 

" 3d. As the Jews in the apostolic days warmly opposed 
the omission of ancient rites, among which washing or bap- 
tising infants, as well as adults, with water, was one, what 
reason can be given for their silence, when they saw that 
this rite was omitted, by the Apostles, towards the infants 
of adult parents whom they had proselyted ? 

" 4th. If there be no arguments sufficient to destroy the 
validity of infant baptism, and no arguments sufficient to 
establish its validity, in what light must we view infants, 
and why should they be more neglected under the New than 
under the Old Testament ? 

" How are we to understand 2 Cor., vii., 14, 'For the 
unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, &c.' 'And 
Actsii., 38?"' 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 29 

Thus it will be seen that the main points of the Pedo- 
baptist doctrine were set before Mr. Kendrick, and the 
essays written at that time furnish convincing proof that he 
did not evade the questions pressed upon him, but with his 
clear and penetrating views gave an easy and scriptural 
solution of them. Those pertaining to this subject far exceed 
in length others produced at that time. 

It affords us no less satisfaction to appeal to collateral 
testimony, showing a coincidence of opinion as to the calling 
which divine providence had marked out for Mr. Kendrick. 
We refer to the convictions of Christian friends, and par- 
ticularly those with whom he held his church relationship. 
Personal convictions had constrained him to adopt the 
measures above detailed. There was now an endorsement 
of his aims and purposes by an expressed wish on the part 
of the church of which he was a member that he should 
accept a license to preach. To this he could not accede. In 
the language of the author quoted in the previous chapter, 
" So deep was his conviction of his want of the necessary 
qualifications that he declined receiving it, and at length, 
regarding a body so feeble in numbers and gifts, as scarcely 
competent to decide on a question of such importance, he 
proposed to them to lay the subject before the Woodstock 
Association, with which they were connected, and obtain the 
opinion of that body. The church, accordingly, in its next 
letter to the Association, requested them to examine Mr. 
Kendrick in relation to his qualifications for the ministry, 
and express their opinion to the church. They, however, 
regarding such a procedure as scarcely consistent with the 
usages of the denomination, declined the request, but advised 
the church to consult with sister churches." Here the matter 
of licensure rested for the time. Meanwhile preparatory 
study was prosecuted under new auspices. To enjoy the 
benefit of a change of location he sought a new position 
under the supervision of Dr. Nathaniel Emmons of Franklin, 
Massachusetts. 

3* 



30 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

With the facilities afforded by modern travel it would have 
required but few hours and no fatigue to pass from Hanover, 
Hew Hampshire, to the residence of the far-famed divine in 
Franklin. But in the absence of these, when the traveler 
must turn pedestrian, or make his solitary way on horse- 
back, the journey of an hundred and fifty or two hundred 
miles, forms an episode in life. Particularly is this so when 
the tediousness of the journey can neither be relieved by the 
soft breezes of summer, nor enlivened by the gay livery of 
nature in her best attire, but the solitary stranger must 
meet her rugged hills and leafless forests in the sullen stern- 
ness of a New England winter. Mr. Kendrick left his native 
town December 16th, 1802, and arrived at his new seminary 
quarters on the 25th of the same month. Thus nine days of 
laborious travel for man and beast were requisite to overcome 
the distance that can now be passed over in as many hours. 
But in this toilsome journey — which lay south through the 
valley of the Connecticut, till he reached a parallel line with 
Franklin, then turned nearly due east — he was learning, by 
personal observation, the character, condition, and wants of 
the people as he could not otherwise have done. There was 
even here a foreshadowing of the labors of the future man. 
Here was a foretaste of that intercourse which he shared in 
after life in the extensive tours which his professional service 
required him to make. 

The day following was the Lord's day, and he had the 
pleasure of hearing him preach, at whose feet he was to sit 
for a season, to be conducted into the farther mysteries of 
Christian doctrine. 



REV. NATHANIEL KEXDRICK, D. D. 31 



CHAPTER III. 

Notice of Dr. Emmons — His Habits — Qualifications as a Theological 
Teacher — Number of Students — Plan of Instruction — Themes 
examined — Authors consulted — Method of Study — Certificate — 
Removal to Boston — Drs. Baldwin and Stillman's Revival — Emo- 
tions on leaving Boston — Occasional Preaching. 

"We can scarcely render justice to the auspicious relation 
which Mr. Kendrick now enjoyed, without adverting to the 
genius, habits, and acquirements of his new teacher. 

Dr. Emmons was a rare man, and would have been so 
regarded in any age. His peculiar and predominant love of 
order demanded that every thing should be suitably arranged, 
whether it pertained to articles of apparel, the furniture of 
his room, or the treasures of his mind. The prattling child 
that was led into his study when he began his pastorate, and 
re-entered it an aged sire when he closed his labors, beheld 
the desk, books, papers, hat, shovel, and tongs in the same 
place. His habits of body and mind were fixed, and he gave 
himself wholly to his work. His study-chair was his royal 
seat, and his parish was his kingdom. It speaks much for 
the aptitude which he possessed for guiding others, when we 
note that significant and pithy expression of his, indicating 
the line and order of his labors in doctrinal theology. " I 
have spent half my life in making joints." 

Sustaining for sixty-seven years the pastoral relation, du- 
ring more than fifty of which years, " he discharged person- 
ally and statedly the duties of his office,' 1 he united in him- 
self the benefits of a large experience in pulpit and parochial 
service. From first to last between eighty and ninety pupils 
were under his charge, as candidates for the ministry. His 
life, which closed in his ninety-sixth year, was spread over 
nearly a century. 



32 KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

Naturally discriminating to a remarkable degree, a bold, 
vigorous, and independent thinker, he was well fitted to give 
direction and discipline to candidates for the sacred office. 
His works which have appeared since his decease, are a 
monument to his industry, and to his ability as a thinker. 
It is no slight evidence of superior merit, that a professor* 
of large experience has said to young ministers, "By all 
means read Emmons." And the same counsellor expresses 
the wish that unpublished matter from the same pen may see 
the light, and that in place of half a dozen volumes, we may 
have half a score. 

By common consent the " Exercise scheme" originated with 
Dr. Emmons, to which the " Taste scheme" was opposed. 
Of the latter system Dr. Burton was a sturdy advocate, and 
the pupil adhered, in this important branch of theological 
metaphysics, to the views of his earlier rather than of his 
later teacher. 

It was the privilege of Mr. Kendrick to enjoy the instruc- 
tions of this eminent man after he had gained the ripe expe- 
rience of thirty years in his ministry in Franklin. At no 
period in the course of his long and eventful pastorate, could 
his services have been more efficient and instructive, and 
although the term of pupilage under him was a brief one, 
being less than three months continuously, yet followed as it 
was by subsequent interviews with him, rendered easy from 
the proximity of Mr. Kendrick's chosen field of labor, the 
interchange could not prove otherwise than profitable. 

The plan of instruction pursued in this school of the pro- 
phets was as follows : Dr. Emmons furnished his students 
with a system of theological questions, or subjects upon 
which they were required to write essays, after they had con- 
sulted the best authors of opposite sentiments upon the topics 
under examination. Then these productions were subjected 
to criticism both in their arrangement, style of composition, 

* Dr. Enoch Pond. 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 33 

and doctrine. He also frequently lectured upon the duties, 
difficulties, trials, and advantages of ministers. His inter- 
views with them often took the form of colloquy. Of the 
character of these conversational lectures we may judge, for 
they are minuted down in the handwriting of Mr. Kendrick, 
bearing the date of their occurrence, and sufficiently copious 
to give the drift of the discussions. 

Dr. Emmons' eminent fitness for the service which he had 
assumed, may be readily inferred from the fact that his aid 
was sought by so large a number, to guide them in prepara- 
tion for ministerial labor. "When the first pupil had remained 
with him the proposed term of a few weeks, he had no ex- 
pectation of any future application ; but one after another 
resorted to this spiritual Gamaliel, until, as already hinted, 
nearly a hundred had shared the benefit of his able instruc- 
tion. Dr. Emmons was also pre-eminent as a counsellor. 
From first to last he was invited to more than one hundred 
ecclesiastical councils, nearly all of which he actually attended. 
At the burial of this divine, no less than fifty ministers were 
present, and the concourse of people was greater than had 
been known for a century, in the vicinity where his long and 
useful life was spent. This becomes highly significant, when 
we recall the fact that his parish was one of the rural districts 
of New England, and by no means densely peopled. Having 
described so fully the qualifications of the teacher, we may 
indicate some of the subjects that were taken up by the pupil 
then admitted to his charge, and the authors consulted in the 
course of investigation. Prominent among the subjects, and 
those which are noted in the diary of Mr. Kendrick, we find 
the following, viz. : Freedom of the Will, the Decrees of God, 
Reprobation, Election, Predestination, the Atonement, Con- 
version, Baptism, Efficacious Grace, Perseverance of the 
Saints, the Logos, Moral Evil, and Moral Agency. The 
writers whose works treating the above list of subjects were 
particularly consulted, for the purpose of ascertaining their 
views, and the arguments with which they defended them, 



34 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

were these : Dr. Whitby, Dr. Stephen West, Dr. John Smal- 
ley, President Edwards, Dr. Samuel Spring, Dickenson, and 
Lowman, not to mention others of less note. It will be ob- 
served that these are not all accordant in their views. Both 
the Calvinistic and Arminian schools are represented. 

We here give a specimen of Mr. Kendrick's study as 
noted in the diary which he then kept. 

" January 5th. Wrote a sermon in part. In the evening 
read Whitby on Conversion, Decrees, Reprobation, and 
Election. 

" January 8th. Read on Saints' Perseverance, Whitby ; on 
Agency, West ; on the Duty of Concert for Prayer. 

" January 14th. Reviewed Dr. Edwards on the Atone- 
ment ; read a sermon to Dr. Emmons ; wrote a dissertation 
in part on the Atonement. 

This term of study was one necessarily improved with 
much industry, for the reading was followed by an analysis 
or brief of the topics surveyed. More attention was given 
to sermonizing during his residence with Dr. Emmons, then 
under Dr. Burton. As many as four sermons fully written 
are noted as having been read and submitted for criticism. 

The following copy of a certificate found among the papers 
of Mr. Kendrick, will show the estimate which the teacher 
placed upon his pupil, and will add its corroboration to the 
substance of these pages. 

" Franklin, February 10th, 1803. 
" This may certify all whom it may concern, that the bearer 
of this, Mr. Nathaniel Kendrick, conducted with great pro- 
priety during his residence in my family. His mind is strong, 
inquisitive and penetrating. He is capable of conversing 
and of writing upon theological subjects, with ingenuity and 
accuracy. He possesses much better pulpit talents than are 
commonly found in one of his advantages ; and should he be 
properly recommended as a Preacher, I doubt not, but he 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 35 

will not only serve the cause of religion, but do honor to the 
Christian and ministerial character. 

"NATHANIEL EMMONS." 

Our narrative now brings us to another change in the 
faculty of instruction, and also in the seat of operations for 
the completion of a self-imposed curriculum. After the lapse 
of about seven weeks in which Mr. Kendrick makes a journey 
to Hanover, we find him in the City of Boston, and a member 
of the family of Dr. Thomas Baldwin. Hitherto, his lot had 
been cast with Congregationalists, from whose instructions, to 
say the least, he was likely to learn the points of difference 
existing between them and his own ecclesiastical order, and 
to see those points from a vantage ground. It now remains 
to take a supplementary view. How fortunate the position 
now afforded in the providence of God, may be seen from the 
character of the man with whom he took up his sojourn, and 
the intercourse enjoyed with other ministers in Boston, and 
in towns adjacent. 

The pastor of the Second Baptist Church was a model 
minister. Nature had endowed him with liberal gifts, and 
grace was not bestowed in vain. None could better ap- 
preciate the aspirations of a youthful candidate for the 
ministry, whose course of study had been pursued with diffi- 
culties which personal energy alone could overcome, than Dr. 
Baldwin. Trained himself in the severe school of self-denial, 
and uncommon hardships, he entered into close sympathy 
with those who were perseveringly prosecuting theological 
studies. At no time could it have been more fortunate for 
Mr. Kendrick to receive the hand of such a pattern and 
guide as was Dr. Baldwin, than in the year 1803. For 
about twenty years he had labored successfully in the 
pastoral office, seven of those years he had encountered the 
hardships of missionary life in the sparse and newly settled 
regions of New Hampshire, and thirteen not less laborious in 
the city of Boston. He was now in the zenith of his popu- 



36 REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

larity and usefulness. It was not as a pastor and preacher 
alone, that his excellencies were noted. He had experience 
in the defense of our distinguishing views as a denomination, 
and by the voice of his brethren, was the same year called to 
the additional labors of Editorship of the American Baptist 
Magazine, for many years the only religious journal of the 
Baptists in America. Besides his varied and wide experience, 
he was a man of rare goodness, and one whom the poor and 
neglected claimed as their friend and favorite. " Under his 
fostering hand, many of the Churches in the vicinity of 
Boston arose, and by his parental care were they sustained. 
And it is no small praise, both to his piety and to his ability, 
that they drank so universally into his spirit. He had the 
faculty, the true evidence of greatness, of forming other men 
into his own likeness. And hence, it is, that his character 
has left so broad an impression upon all that part of New 
England. He set before his brethren an example of simple 
unaffected piety. He was a man of peace, and hushed all 
their contentions, until in his vicinity contention was wholly 
forgotten. " 

Dr. Samuel Stillman was at this time the honored pastor 
of the First Baptist Church of Boston. With him Mr. 
Kendrick was permitted to associate quite frequently, deriv- 
ing the benefit of his criticisms upon discourses written and 
submitted to his inspection. It was at this stage in his 
course also, that Mr. Kendrick began to occupy pulpits in 
the vicinity of Boston ; and as he was also invited to preach 
both in Dr. Baldwin's and Dr. Stillman's pulpit, he had the 
advantage of their suggestions in the delivery of sermons. 
The occasion of preaching before the latter is particularly 
noted as a season of unusual embarrassment, and the hints 
given at that time were never forgotten. It should be borne 
in mind that Dr. Stillman had then occupied his post in the 
city for nearly forty years, with great acceptance. He had 
come down from the stirring scenes of '76, and brought 
with him the sterling piety of a trial age. " As an eloquent 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEIOK, D. D. 37 

preacher lie held the first rank. He possessed a pleasant 
and commanding voice ; and he was enabled to transfuse 
his own feelings into the hearts of his auditors. Such was 
his urbanity of manners, and his kind, catholic spirit, that 
he was comparatively alike popular with all denominations. 
His uncommon vivacity and energy of feeling were united 
with a perfect sense of propriety, and with affability, ease 
and politeness. These qualities gave him deservedly great 
influence in Boston." 

In addition to the privilege of being under the tuition of 
such men as we have now sketched, it was no slight benefit 
to attend upon their ministrations on the Lord's Day, and 
their weekly lectures, which were so arranged that he could 
hear both — Dr. Stillman's coming on Wednesday, and Dr. 
Baldwin's on Thursday evening. This city was then a focal 
point for ministerial talent, not in our own denomination 
alone, but in the "Standing Order." Men of eminence were 
there often heard, and occasions of great interest transpired 
in the year 1803. It was in June of this year that William 
E. Channing was ordained, and the staunch opponent of 
infidelity, Dr. Tappan, then Professor of Divinity at Cam- 
bridge, delivered the sermon on the occasion. In August 
following, this noted defender of the gospel went to his 
reward, and the funeral solemnities, witnessed by Mr. Ken- 
drick, were of a deeply impressive character. 

The crowning privilege of his term of study in the city 
of Boston, was to be under the instruction of the Holy 
Spirit during a remarkable work of grace which began in the 
spring of 1803, and continued for the period of two and a 
half years. This season of special effusion of the Divine 
Spirit was characterized by greater power than any enjoyed 
since the memorable awakening of lt40. It was not the 
word only, presented by the ministers, that appealed to men, 
but "almost every thing seemed to preach." The tongue of 
the profane was sobered ; the Sabbath-breaker was reclaimed ; 
and the gambler recovered from the fascination of his peril- 

4 



38 EEV. 

ous ventures. Extracts might be given here from the pri- 
vate letters of Dr. Baldwin to Mr. Kendrick, after he left 
the city, showing the remarkable character of this work. 
" The attention to religion here is truly wonderful," he 
writes again and again. When the interest was at its height, 
meetings were held every night, and Dr. Baldwin's house of 
worship was crowded, sometimes filling the aisles up to the 
pulpit stairs, and hundreds leaving without the possibility of 
gaining admission to the sanctuary. Some were arrested 
with convicting power, or brought into the liberty of Christ, 
almost every meeting. " O my brother," writes Dr. B., "it 
is a harvest time indeed. The attention is greater than I 
ever saw here before. People flock from all parts of the 
town to see and hear." 

This interest commenced simultaneously in both the Bap- 
tist churches, resulting in an accession of one hundred and 
thirty-five to the First Baptist Church, and two hundred and 
twelve to the Second, making an aggregate of three hundred 
and forty-seven. Nor was the work confined to these ; it 
extended to the churches in other communions. It is confi- 
dently believed that a happy change in the religious views 
of a large portion of professing Christians in Boston, owes 
its origin to this revival. The tide of Unitarianism was 
gradually coming into orthodox churches ; this work created 
a repelling current, and gave it a salutary check. 

While Mr. Kendrick continued in his studies in Boston, 
using his time with much economy and industry, he was in 
constant attendance in these revival meetings, discoursing 
personally with many under conviction for sin, and rendering 
himself a welcome and useful laborer. Thus early in his 
ministerial training was he mastering lessons in the school 
of Christ, which are not placed before every theological pupil 
now admitted to the best furnished schools of the prophets. 

Having given an outline of the opportunities set before 
the candidate, at this eventful period, we may introduce him 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 39 

to the reader in his own language, when he is about to sever 
the ties that bound him to teachers and Christian people. 

The date is September 5th, 1803. " This day I have had 
some painful feelings at the thought of leaving such an agree- 
able society, and so many affectionate friends, but more par- 
ticularly those dear youth in the agonies of distress for their 
souls. The solemn meetings which I have within a few days 
attended, have excited in me various feelings. God is in this 
place of a truth. that his work may prosper, and sinners 
flock to him and be saved. Great God wilt thou grant me 
the quickening influences of thy Spirit. May I never spend 
a day less to thy glory than this ; when I leave this place may 
I not leave thee ; may I know what it is to have my confidence 
in God. Divine Redeemer, wilt thou order my desires to 
glorify thee with success. " 

We will not detain our readers to go over the record of 
texts that were used by officiating pastors and others that 
were called in to aid in this gracious work, suffice it to say 
they were such scriptures as exhibited the marrow of the gos- 
pel. This was the staple food for the hungering multitudes. 
This was the sole fabulum furnished in the provisions of 
God's house, nor did it need the condiments of wit, or the 
flourishes of rhetoric to excite a relish in those who came to 
be fed with the Bread of heaven. Reluctant to depart from 
the sanctuary when dismissed, they at times tarried till 
ten o'clock, and, had they been encouraged by resident pastors, 
would doubtless have prolonged their sessions to the mid- 
night hour. 

It is not common in the revivals that now take place, to 
witness in those who in the judgment of charity are hopeful 
subjects of conversion, convictions for sin so pungent, and 
approaches so near the verge of despair as were frequently 
observed at that time. A transcript here from Mr. Kendrick's 
diary will exhibit these features. 

" Sept. 3d, 1803. Attended a prayer meeting at the vestry — 
a solemn attention — a number under weighty impressions. 



40 EEY. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

Discoursed with who were almost in despair ; one 

said ' I could tear my flesh from my bones if that would give 
me relief.' that God would show them mercy." 

" Sept. 3th. Lord's day morning, attended prayer meeting 

at the vestry at 6 o'clock. The find no relief. 

Others who were present were in much distress ." 

It is probable that being an eye-witness, and actor in revi- 
val scenes marked by such amazing power as was this awak- 
ening, left its indelible impress upon Mr. Kendrick's mind, 
and put him upon strict vigilance, to examine with a search- 
ing and distrustful eye, even every work that had not decisive 
evidences of depth and lasting effect. Contracting thus in 
the incipient stages of ministerial experience, a partiality for 
revivals of religion of a strong doctrinal type, he was in after 
life wary of those promoted by loose theological views. His 
connection with this work of grace, under the labors of men 
of so much practical skill and eminent godliness, as then filled 
the two Baptist Pulpits of Boston, formed one of the most 
fertile chapters of his life. The revival season itself is thus 
alluded to by Dr. Baldwin in one of his letters. " It appears 
to be a fine school for a young minister." 

In concluding this account of his preparatory training, we 
should do injustice to the subject of these annals, did we fail 
to apprize the reader, that his gifts were frequently called 
into requisition during his stay in the city. At the date of 
his departure Sept. 6th, he had preached in Charlestown, New- 
ton, Woburn, Bellingham, Danverse, and Beverly, in some of 
them several times, besides repeatedly supplying the pulpits 
of his reverend and honored instructors. 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 41 



CHAPTER IV. 

Visit to Brown University — Sickness, reflections — Bellingham Baptist 
Church. — Mr. Kendrick as a Supply — Visit to Boston — Habits of 
Preparation — Social Intercourse — Neighboring Ministers — Journal — 
Visit to Hanover and other places — Return — Request to visit the 
Baptist Church of Hoosick — Preaching in Lansingburgh, Troy, and 
other towns — Call to supply at Lansingburgh — Call to settle at Bel- 
lingham. Farewell Sermon. 

We come now to the period of Mr. Kendrick's transition 
from preparatory study to actual pastoral service. Hitherto 
he had supplied vacant pulpits here and there, or yielded to 
the solicitations of friends in presenting an occasional dis- 
course. He was now to enter the field of continuous labor. 
Known already to some extent, it was not necessary for him 
to embark upon a tour of exploration to find destitute and 
desirable pastorates. To watch for eligible posts, seemed not 
to come within the scope of his plan. His personal prefer- 
ences were held in abeyance, and his responses were made to 
the manifest calls of Divine Providence. 

Desirous of witnessing the anniversary exercises of Com- 
mencement at Brown University, he availed himself of the 
opportunity then afforded him of paying a visit to that venera- 
ble seat of learning. In this brief journey to Providence he 
enjoyed the company of a few friends, sufficient to beguile the 
weariness of the way, we may be certain, since Dr. Baldwin 
was one of the number. By no means the least of prized 
entertainments then, was the generous Christian hospitality 
which was shown on these annual festivals. Whether it were 
due to the welcome escort, or some other source, it was the 
fortune of Mr. Kendrick to share the kind hospitality of Dr. 
Gano, then pastor of the First Baptist Church in Providence, 
whose favorite mottos were, " house room for many," and, 
" heart room for multitudes. " His hospitality was appreciated, 

4* 



42 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

and proved in fact very timely. Scarcely had the public ex- 
ercises concluded, when Mr. Kendrick, was seized with a 
severe and threatening illness, which continued for several 
days. The disease assumed a dysenteric form, yielding, how- 
ever, to vigorous treatment, so that, in the lapse often days, he 
was able to resume his labor. In this sudden prostration he 
appreciated the attention of friends in a city of strangers, and 
the affliction was evidently sanctified, as will appear from the 
following record, made after his recovery, dated Bellingham, 
September 19th, 1803 : " O God, Thou hast called me to 
experience new dispensations of providence for two weeks 
past. Thou hast threatened me with a mortal stroke, but hast 
suspended it. O, may this not leave me now hardened in sin. 
Glorious God, hast thou not some good to answer by admin- 
istering this affliction ? May it quicken me now to the discharge 
of my duty. May I live, redeeming the time. May I daily 
inquire, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do ? Impart to me 
new grace every day. Let me not spend one idle day in the 
succeeding part of my life, nor a day in which I shall not know 
more of Thee at the close of it, than at. the beginning. 0, 
may I feel my constant dependence upon thine all-conquering 
grace. Dear Lord Jesus, subject my obdurate heart to thy- 
self ; help me to fulfill thy blessed will. May I throw away 
all of my own righteousness, that I may be clothed with 
thy spotless righteousness. Divine Redeemer! wilt thou 
kindle a flame of sacred love in my cold heart. 0, do I not 
feel some breathings after thee at this time ? Lord suffer me 
not to languish. May my pride be humbled, and my soul be 
kept at the foot of the cross. May I enjoy the enlightening 
and teaching influences of the Spirit, that I may understand 
the Bible. May I ever open that sacred volume, praying for 
that temper of heart which will relish its divine truths, and 
give me desires to search for its marrow and fatness. 0, Lord, 
succeed a right desire if I have one in my heart." 

We should not expect that one actuated by the spirit and 
temper here exhibited, would be long in fruitless search of a 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 43 

place, nor so particular about the terms of settlement, as to 
prevent a prompt engagement. As soon as his strength war- 
ranted a return to the pulpit, we find Mr. Kendrick with the 
people at Bellingham, Mass. His acquaintance here had 
begun by his supplying them three successive Lord's Days in 
the June preceding. The circumstances of his position may 
be better understood by a brief allusion to the early history 
of this body. 

The church in Bellingham was constituted in the year 1*73?, 
consisting of fifteen male members. It claims to be the 
daughter of the First Baptist Church of Swansea, a town 
within the old Plymouth colony. The present church is the 
oldest Baptist church in the Bay State, and next to the oldest 
in the United States — the First Baptist Church in Providence, 
R. I., being the oldest, — having originated in 1663, under the 
Rev. John Miles, from Wales, and from a town bearing the 
name of Swansea. At the time of the constitution of the 
Bellingham church, there were but three churches within the 
limits of what is now known as Massachusetts, to wit, the 
First Church in Boston, the First in Swansea, above noticed, 
and one in South Brimfield. We learn from Benedict's History, 
" That Bellingham was, for many years, the favorite resort of 
the few Baptist ministers in the country." Here the Warren 
Association often held its sessions, which was the first Bap- 
tist association formed in Xew England, consisting at first of 
only four churches, of which the Bellingham Church was one. 
In later times, this church became the foster mother of the two 
eminent ministers, John and Aaron Leland. Unfortunately 
it became involved in difficulties concerning a successor of the 
Rev. 2s"oah Alden, and for many years lost its visibility. It 
was during a part of this period of trial that Mr. Kendrick 
ministered to the people of Bellingham. From a historical 
discourse by Dr. Fisher, who was for many years pastor of 
this church, we have the following paragraph touching the sub- 
ject of this memoir : 

"After the erection of the present house, several ministers 



44 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D D. 

preached in town for short terms ; but Mr. Nathaniel Ken- 
drick was the first who continued for any considerable length 
of time. He resided and preached here about two years. 
And here permit me to express my respect and affection for 
Mr. Kendrick, not only as one of my predecessors, but as my 
former instructor, and as my continued and esteemed friend. 
The recollection of such an instructor and friend, excites at 
once the tear of regret, and the smile of pleasure and joy." 

The statement of time, given above, is not exact. It was 
about a year and a half from his first supply at this place, to 
the close of his labors ; and this short period of labor was 
farther diminished by three intervals of absence, one of three 
weeks, and two of about seven weeks each. 

After preaching six weeks from the period of his recovery, 
Mr. Kendrick returned to Boston, where for three weeks he 
was permitted to witness a display of convicting and con- 
verting grace. It was a season rich in the outpouring of the 
Holy Spirit. Many were anxiously inquiring the way of 
salvation, and it was no common privilege to direct them to 
Christ, as well as to listen to the testimony of those who had 
recently been brought to the saving knowledge of the truth. 
Mr. Kendrick had now numerous acquaintances in the city, 
and the prevailing religious interest lent to his intercourse 
with them a charm which rendered it unspeakably precious. 
The value which he attached to these opportunities is evinced 
by almost daily entries in his journal, of which the following 
are brief specimens : 

" 0, that God would enable me to be in some little degree 
faithful in His cause." 

" Nov. 19th. I have this day had some satisfaction in 
discoursing and contemplating upon religion." 

After having received some gifts of friends, he says : "0 
that God would give me grace to improve to his glory all the 
blessings which He and his dear people confer upon me." 

From this season of reunions and renewed fellowship with 
brethren, Mr. Kendrick returned to resume his labors at 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 45 

Bellingham. He continued here for twelve weeks, receiving 
the moderate compensation of four dollars for each Lord's 
Day. He was then invited to supply the desk for six months, 
at the rate of five dollars per Lord's Day. Although the 
amount seems but a mere pittance, compared with what most 
now receive, it was no doubt fair for the general standard of 
ministerial support, and no hint is indicated but that it was 
all that could be reasonably expected. 

It will not be unprofitable to indicate the manner in which, 
in this early period of his ministerial labors, he employed his 
time. A prominent share was devoted to study. His most 
immediate attention was given to the planning and compo- 
sition of sermons. To this work he gave a portion of each 
day, from near the commencement to the close of the week, 
allowance being of course made for the numerous inevitable 
hindrances incident to the pastoral relation. His strength, 
however, was not all spent in this direction. He had a strong 
taste for doctrinal investigations, and diversified his labor by 
consulting the ablest works in biblical and metaphysical 
theology, and in history, both sacred and profane. On con- 
tested questions it was not his habit to restrict his reading to 
a single side. It was rather his uniform method to select 
those works, on both sides, which took decisive, and even 
extreme views. Thus he possessed himself of the best modes, 
alike of defense and refutation, his own leanings being de- 
cidedly Calvinistic, and strongly marked. 

His intercourse with his people was familiar and frequent ; 
scarcely a day passed in which he was not either called upon 
by some of his own parishioners, or by friends from abroad ; 
and besides, he often met one or more families socially. Nor 
were these interviews barren of good, or frittered away in 
idle conversation. His journal here and there bears witness 
to the themes that came up for familiar discussion, and the 
course of thought which the occasion originated. 

Mr. Kendrick was accustomed to converse with the impen- 



46 E E V. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.B. 

itent, and to record the varying phases of individual experi- 
ence in regard to the interests of religion. Although it was 
not a season of unusual attention to religion while he labored 
in Bellingham, yet cases of awakening were of occasional 
occurrence. And not a Lord's Day service passed, not a con- 
ference meeting was held, of which he does not specify the 
attendance, and the spirit and tone of the exercises, and the 
time-honored practice of referring to a goodly season in 
preaching as one of " enjoying liberty," is not omitted. 

The congregations were usually large and attentive, and 
the evidence was clear and gratifying that his labors were 
received with acceptance and favor. 

During Mr. Kendrick's labors in this place he had also 
good opportunities for intercourse with brethren in the 
ministry. He was not remote from the residence of some of 
his esteemed teachers, and besides the pleasure of paying 
them visits at their own homes, he had the satisfaction of 
receiving a visit from Dr. Emmons and Dr. Baldwin. He 
appears to have been on terms of intimacy with Dr. Gano, 
with whom he also exchanged pulpits, and we cannot say but 
a link in the chain of providences was then forged, the golden 
lustre of which was not to be displayed till near a quarter of 
a century later, when the veteran pastor, still at his post, full 
of years and full of honors, meets him who was once the 
candidate at Bellingham, in the Empire State, set apart with 
others to conduct the school of the prophets. The allusion 
here will have a full development in a future chapter. 

We have now indicated the style of service to which Mr. 
Kendrick gave himself in this part of the Lord's vineyard, 
except that for a while he guided a few pupils in their studies, 
a work which, at that day, was necessarily devolved, far more 
than at the present era of academic institutions, upon pastors 
of churches. The following selection from the pious breath- 
ings contained in his private journal will show what at this 
time was his interior and spiritual life : " thou gracious 
God have mercy, have mercy upon thy sinful creature. Wilt 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 47 

thou work a reformation in him by thine all-conquering 
Spirit. Does any sin lie on his conscience unrepented of? 
Lord thou knowest. If there be, wilt thou show it to him, 
and grant him sincere repentance. May I not live at such a 
dying rate. Gracious Lord ! Wilt thou revive in me a 
spirit of secret devotion ! that I may not be so far from 
worshiping thee in spirit. When will thy presence return ? 
Most merciful God forsake not the work of thy hands. I 
acknowledge I have sinned against thee, and deserve thine 
everlasting displeasure ; but O God let thy mercy appear 
for the sake of thy dear Son, who died to save even the 
chief of sinners. How can I live without thy presence ? 
Wilt thou humble my hard and proud heart ? Wilt thou 
crown these desires with success ?" 

On the 15th of February, 1804, Mr. Kendrick made a tour 
to his native State, spending one Lord's Day in Boston, on 
his way homeward, and two on his return, besides one in 
Charlestown. He spent one also in Hanover, his native 
place, one in Haverhill, and one in Thetford with Dr. Burton, 
his former instructor. In all these places he preached upon 
the Lord's Day, and during the week yielded to the solicita- 
tion of friends to hold forth publicly the word of life. Thus 
his season of visitation with relatives and friends was one 
that abounded in labors. Knowing that he was set for the 
defense and propagation of the gospel, they did not suffer him 
to lack opportunities for the discharge of this service. 

When Mr. Kendrick left Bellingham, on his visit to New 
Hampshire, his mind was undecided as to his future place of 
labor. The following letter, written from Hanover on the 
21st day of February, will explain both the causes of his 
journey and the result to which he arrived : — 

" Gentlemen, 

" Com. of Supplies for Bellingham. 

"I have made your request a subject of attention, and 
have endeavored to study my duty in relation to it. I wish 



48 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 

I could, with propriety, delay my answer until I could visit 
several vacancies in these parts. I learn that the Lord is 
beginning to revive his work in a town where I have been 
several times solicited to supply them, and that they are yet 
without stated supplies, and have been waiting for my 
return. 

" I have not made them a visit, nor do they know of my 
arrival, the town being about sixty miles distant. 

" The call for gospel laborers in these parts is as great as 
I expected to find, but I acknowledge, sirs, that the state of 
things at Bellingham almost brought me to a conclusion of 
mind to return, before I left Boston. Although there are 
several weighty motives to induce me to tarry in these 
regions, yet having taken all things into view, I possess a 
measure of conviction that it is the will of the Great Head of 
the Church that I should return to you and labor in that part 
of his vineyard. 

" Thus, gentlemen, I now conclude to comply with your 
request, and by divine permission will begin the proposed 
term of six months, the second Lord's Day of April, unless I 
give you previous information of deferring it till the fourth. 

" That our farther acquaintance may be accompanied with 
many spiritual blessings, is the prayer of your indebted ser- 
vant. 

"NATH. KENDRICK. 

" Com. of Supplies, Bellingham." 

On the 8th of April he resumed his labors in Bellingham 
and continued them until the tenth of September following. 
In the meantime the Baptist church in Hoosick, Rensselaer 
county, New York, a small and feeble body, made application 
through the Rev. Clark Kendrick, of Poultney, Vermont, to 
have Mr. Kendrick visit them, with a view of settlement. 
The communication sent by the committee in the month of 
March, failed to reach its destination until the seventh of 
June, and no step was taken by way of making the acquaint- 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 49 

ance of this church until nearly three months later. The 
urgent appeal may, or may not have been the chief induce- 
ment to undertake the journey over the Green Mountains. 
At all events the tour was made, and the following towns 
were visited, to-wit : Hanover, Norwich, Poultney, Rutland, 
Hoosick, or Mapletown, Lansingburgh, and Troy. In all 
the above towns he preached, and in all save one spent a 
Lord's Day. In Hoosick he spent two weeks. He formed 
several agreeable and profitable acquaintances, and his inter- 
course with the Lansingburgh church resulted in a request 
to come and preach with them for six months. He acceded 
to the request, and agreed to be with them in seven or eight 
weeks from that date, November 4th, 1804. 

Upon Mr. Kendrick's return to Bellingham, he was urged 
to remain until April following, the society offering as an 
inducement an increase of salary. This was soon followed 
by a unanimous call to become their pastor. The document 
containing this request shows an appreciation of his labors, 
and that the society meditated no annual engagements which 
might be suddenly terminated. It is as follows : 

" The Society met, agreeably to warrant from the com- 
mittee, and after choosing a moderator, they proceeded to 
business as follows, viz. : 

" 1. A motion was made that the society's committee 
apply to Mr. Kendrick, and request him to settle with us so 
long as he shall be useful to us, and we agreeable to him, 
and that the yeas and nays be taken on the motion ; in 
which result there were yeas thirty-four, that being the 
number present. 

" 2. Voted to give him a salary of two hundred and sixty 
dollars for the first year." 

From private correspondence he was subsequently assured 
that there were none who dissented from the wish that he 
would return. The matter was to be held under advisement 
for several weeks, and in the meantime he was solicited by 
the church and society to make no engagement until his 

5 



50 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

term at Lansingburgh had closed. His reply to the call so 
urgent was, however, averse to the wishes of the church and 
society. His labors terminated with this people on the ninth 
of December. The occasion was improved from the words 
chosen by Paul when about to part with the Elders of Ephe- 
sus, contained in Acts 20 : 32. It was befitting him who 
had taken so deep an interest in this people, to adopt the 
above passage as a farewell sentiment, and they in turn 
evinced their respect and attachment by a full house, and 
solemn attention to his parting words. 



REV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K, D. D. 51 



CHAPTER Y. 

Removal to Lansingburgh— The Church — Its prospects — Shaftsbury 
Association — Its Anniversaries — Christian Hospitality — Call for Set- 
tlement — Ordination — School Teaching — First Baptism — Pastoral 
Work — Ministerial Intercourse — Quarterly Conferences — Missionary 
Spirit — Missionary Bodies — Their Fields. 

The preceding chapter closed with Mr. Kendrick's consent 
to supply the church in Lansmgburgh for a term of six 
months. He commenced his labors at this place on the 30th 
of December. 

In some respects we cannot speak in flattering terms of 
the change that was now made. It was not auspicious, so 
far as either numerical or pecuniary strength in the church 
and society was concerned. The church was organized that 
same year, consisting of thirty members, and had united 
with the Shaftsbury Association, at its recent session in 
June. Like many other churches at that time, it was strug- 
gling to maintain its visibility against many obstacles, not 
the least of which was poverty. At the first covenant meet- 
ing which Mr. Kendrick attended, fourteen members were 
present. In a company so small, and feeble in resources, it 
was a befitting period to apply the prophet's query, "By 
whom shall Jacob arise ? for he is small." 

There was, however, a more favorable side of the picture. 
Of recent origin, the church had not to mourn over habits of 
disunion, and unbrotherly traits of character, which too often 
mar the beauty of churches venerable for age. If it was an 
infant body, in its weakness it was united, and herein pos- 
sessed the germ of strength. The town itself gave fair 
promise of a growth, from which the church might anticipate 
a corresponding expansion Its site was on the eastern bank 
of the Hudson, three miles above Troy and nine above 



52 

Albany. With a navigable stream touching the tide waters, 
its commercial facilities would lend it an importance beyond 
that of inland towns. Nor were these the only desirable 
aspects of the field. The church had united itself to an 
Association of great usefulness and respectability ; one that 
had nearly completed its history of twenty-five years' suc- 
cessful operation, and at that time enrolled a list of forty- 
eight churches, with an aggregate membership of over four 
thousand four hundred. In this body there were many 
ministers of whom it may be said, their " praise is in the 
Gospel throughout all the churches." We have only to men- 
tion a few: — Caleb Blood, Lemuel Covell, Obed. Warren, 
Elias Lee, Edward Barber, Samuel Rogers, Abijah Peck, 
Isaiah Mattison, Joseph Craw, Justus Hull, John Leland, 
and Isaac Webb. These names will suggest to many, who 
have long "borne the burden and heat of the day," others 
no less precious, whose "witness is in heaven," and whose 
"record is on high." The names of thirty-six ministers 
were reported as then in connection and fellowship with 
the body. 

Many associations are now determined by the boundaries 
of a single county, and hence take their distinctive name. 
The one before us stretched its generous arms over seventeen 
counties ;and these were not shut in by any particular State 
lines. The field was mostly within the Empire State, but in- 
cluded portions of Massachusetts and Yermont, and embraced 
also five churches which had been gathered in the missionary 
regions of Upper Canada. The anniversaries of an associa- 
tion whose churches were extended over so wide a territory, 
very naturally became seasoned by deep and thrilling interest. 
In the absence of iron ways, and steam driven chariots, lay- 
men and ministers made their journeys in private conveyances, 
scores of miles, consuming many days in travel, to attend 
these spiritual festivals in Zion. Along the thoroughfares 
converging to the focal point chosen for the anniversary, were 
Baptist homes of large hospitality, eager for the season to 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 53 

come round, when they could welcome the messengers of the 
Churches to their habitations, both going and returning. 
These Christian salutations on the journey, were such as 
Paul and his compeers enjoyed in their travels, and formed 
no unimportant link between the ministers and churches. 
There were appointments on the road to be met, and hearts 
surcharged with Christian love were telegraphic batteries to 
send out, and communicate the good news of a prosperous 
and rejoicing Israel to the more distant tribes. Connection 
with such a body whose pulsations of life were throbbing to 
its distant extremities, was indeed a privilege of no slight 
moment. If here and there a church was not specially affec- 
ted by the union, its pastor was admitted to an intercourse 
and fellowship which might tell in various ways upon the in- 
terest of Zion in after yeais. It is in this light we may view 
the relationship of Mr. Kendrick to the Shaftsbury Associa- 
tion. 

It was then, as we have intimated, with a church few in 
numbers, and small in pecuniary strength, yet favorably allied 
in its affinities to sister churches, and to a pious, faithful and 
self-denying ministry, in adjacent regions, that a brief engage- 
ment of six months was first made. When this term had 
expired he was called to assume the pastoral charge perma- 
nently. The following communications speak for themselves, 
showing the state of the church and the cordiality and con- 
currence of the society, in the action of the infant body. 

" After finding ourselves in the enjoyment of peace, har- 
mony and fellowship, and some comfortable communications 
from the Spirit of divine consolation, and being impressed 
with the solemn importance of having the ordinances of 
Christ's House statedly and duly administered amongst us, 
and as the time for which you were engaged to minister unto 
us has almost expired, it was therefore unanimously the voice 
of the church, viz. : 

" That as God in his kind providence has been pleased to 

5* 



54 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

bring you to dwell amongst us for a season, and since we have 
reason to think that your ministrations and labors have been 
greatly blessed to our use, edification, and also to the cause 
of Christ in this place, it was therefore resolved that we in- 
vite you to continue amongst us a gospel minister as long as 
God in his providence may make us mutually beneficial. More- 
over, the church have to request that you receive ordination 
as soon as a kind providence may permit. 

" Wishing you divine assistance and consolation, in behalf of 
the church, 

"M. WILLARD, Clerk." 

The following, of June lTth, 1805, is from the society : 

" As God in the course of his providence has brought Mr. 
Nathaniel Kendrick to dwell with us for some months past, 
and as we are of the opinion that his labors and ministrations 
have been greatly blessed among us, it is our unanimous wish 
to concur with the church in requesting him to continue with 
us as long as God in his providence may make him useful 
amongst us, and also that he may be ordained as soon as con- 
venient." 

This call he accepted, and in compliance with the wishes of 
his people, was ordained on the 15th of August ensuing, by 
a counsel duly convened for the purpose. 

Nearly coincident with his settlement as pastor, he entered 
upon the laborous task of teaching a select school, in connec- 
tion with his ministerial duties. For more than half the 
period of his six years pastorate in this town, he found it 
necessary to prosecute this work, to make up the deficiency 
of a salary quite inadequate to his wants. It demanded a 
rigid economy of his time to discharge the pulpit and paro- 
chial duties, along with those of his school. Few are able 
for any considerable period to meet the two-fold labors of 
minister and teacher, without serious inroads upon their 
strength, or but superficial attention to the obligations of 
tasks so onerous. That he was competent to endure so much, 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 55 

was owing to a most admirable physical constitution attem- 
pered in the bracing atmosphere of the Granite Hills, and to 
a mind which corresponded to his physical frame, in its per- 
fect symmetry and balance, and in its capacity of patient toil. 

It was not Mr. Kendrick's privilege to receive large acces- 
tions to the church at any time during his ministry in 
Lansingburgh. The highest number of candidates received 
by baptism in any one year, was nine. About one year from 
his ordination he welcomed the first candidate to this precious 
ordinance of the New Testament. On that day he makes 
this entry in his Journal : " that God may be praised for 
his goodness." 

In the following month he visited the baptismal waters 
again, and on that day he received into the fellowship of the 
Church, one with whom he was almost half a century 
associated in the benevolent enterprises of the day. We 
refer to the late Friend Humphrey, of Albany, then a youth 
of about nineteen years of age. 

We can scarcely attempt to conduct the reader into the 
details of his pastoral work, while in this place. It was not 
marked by unusual events. We might, indeed, give place to 
here and there a scene of mental agony upon a sick and 
dying couch, or some striking providence which passed under 
Mr. Kendrick's notice ; but these are only a specimen of what 
transpire in almost every parish, and hence need not en- 
cumber these pages. We should fail to come up to the level 
of the hour, if we restricted our survey to the small village 
which is the seat of his ministrations on the Lord's Day. 

There was much fraternal and social intercourse in the 
Baptist ministry at that period, which looked directly to the 
affectiveness of evangelical preaching. Doctrines were dis- 
cussed with a relish which those of later birth, and more 
recent consecration to the sacred office, possess not, or if they 
do, infrequently indulge. This springs, in part, doubtless, 
from the fact that the theological discussions, which are now 
so advantageously and intensly prosecuted during a course of 



56- EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

preparatory study, were then spread over the whole surface 
of ministerial life. To our fathers with their limited early 
advantages and comparative isolation, these occasional dis- 
cussions were a necessity. They came to them as a rich 
privilege and luxury, and we, from our more favored position, 
although we see in them sometimes the infirmities of human 
nature, can as a whole, look back to them only with the most 
profound respect. 

A development of this taste and habit, is furnished in those 
Quarterly Conferences which were maintained for awhile, in 
which sermons were preached, essays were read, oral criti- 
cisms were made, and individual views and judgments com- 
pared. In these gatherings, the subject of our memoir bore 
a prominent part. His pen drafted the questions for dis- 
cussion, and gave a summary of the conflicting, or accordant 
views. Nor was his pen remiss in duty when it devolved 
upon him to produce a more elaborate dissertation. 

Of great practical moment was the missionary spirit that 
took its rise in the Shaftsbury Association with the dawn of 
the present century. The genuine missionary spirit is indeed 
coeval with the birth of Christianity, and coextensive with 
its reign. Still the type of the church's piety is unques- 
tionably liable to be influenced by the general characteristics 
of the age, and it is a happy feature of our modern society, that 
it developes on so large a scale, the practical energies of the 
churches. The period in which this particular body put 
itself into an aggressive attitude, was the epoch of its 
increasing usefulness. The attention of pastors and people 
was doubtless called to this work by seeing the inadequacy 
of individual exertions without concerted action, to meet the 
wants of destitute districts both near and remote. Prior 
to the year 1800, the eccentric Leland had performed itinerant 
labor in the states of "Virginia, Pennsylvania and South 
Carolina, and in the year 1800, he made a tour occupying 
four months' time, in New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island 
and Massachusetts, and in the same year, his labors were 



EEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 57 

abundantly blessed in the town of Cheshire, in which he 
resided. We find in the minutes of the following year, that 
" Elders Samuel Rogers and Joseph Craw, were commended 
to the favorable regard of all good people, wherever they 
might be disposed to travel, to bear the glad tidings of the 
kingdom of God as ministers in good report at home." But 
now the minds of brethren began to look for united effort, in 
supplying destitution abroad. It was proposed to form a 
plan, to sustain such ministers as might enter upon itinerant 
labors for a portion of the year, just so long as they might be 
released from their pastorates. 

The suggestion originated with the Rev. Lemuel Corell, 
then of Pittstown, K Y. 

The missionary field contemplated was the " Far West," 
the limits of which were quite as indefinite then, as now, 
although the phrase has since advanced a long journey to- 
wards the setting sun. Then it comprised Western New 
York, Upper Canada, and Ohio. These embraced the 
extreme limits, and the people to be reached were the pioneer 
settlers upon the frontiers, and aborgines of the wilderness. 

The proposition to contribute for the above-named purpose, 
was submitted in the year 1801. As the fruit of this measure, 
twenty dollars were forwarded at the next anniversary, and 
Rev. Caleb Blood performed a tour, lying chiefly between 
Cayuga Lake and the head of Lake Ontario, consuming ten 
weeks in the service. This became the signal for enlarged 
operations. In the ensuing year Brethren Corell and War- 
ren embarked in this itinerant work, and pushed their journey 
as far as Buffalo, and into Canada as far as Long Point, occu- 
pying about four months. It is difficult to conceive the con- 
trast between the aspect then exhibited by this vast field, 
and its present condition. Cities are now teeming with a 
numerous population, and the surrounding districts are rich 
in agricultural thrift and beauty, where then the little village 
had but just chosen its site, and formed its little cluster of 
houses, while stately forests begirt the infant settlement. On 



58 

the journal of the missionary, Buffalo is noted down as " a 
small village, at the mouth of a creek of that name, just at 
the foot of Lake Erie, having no stated meeting for religious 
worship, nor any religious society formed." Five or six miles 
up the creek was an Indian village, where the council of dif- 
ferent tribes was held for ten days together, to determine 
whether missionary work should be encouraged amongst 
them or not, the famous sachem of the Seneca Nation, Red- 
Jacket, favoring the measure, and his counsel at length pre- 
vailing. 

In the year 1802 a Board of Missions was constituted, which, 
with but little change of plan, continued for nearly a score 
and a half of years, to be the fiscal agent of the Shaftsbury 
Association. 

It is interesting to observe, as showing how a common 
spirit of missionary action was taking possession of the 
churches, that in the State of Maine, in the year 1199, a plan 
of operation was originated called the " Gospel Mission," the 
object of which was to raise money to sustain missionary 
efforts among the new settlements. This was done in the 
Bowdoinham Association ; the oldest in the State. In the 
same year the Massachusetts Baptist Society was formed. 
In the year 1801 the Lake Baptist Missionary Society was 
organized in Pompey, Onondaga County, New York, whose 
name indicated that the lake country was to be the field of its 
operations. 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 59 



CHAPTER YL 

Early attempts for a Convention of Associations — Foreign Missions — 
Foreign Missions unite brethren widely separated by Distance — 
Home Missions — Mr. Kendrick a Missionary — Tours — Labors — 
Incident — Providential Preservation — Call to a New Settlement — 
Call to visit Churches— Views of Support to Missions — Marriage — 
Family — Close of labors in Lansingburg — Farewell Sermon. 

In the missionary bodies noticed in the preceding chapter, 
we have the germs of our national organizations of later 
date. A further coincidence may here be noticed, showing 
that the minds of brethren widely separated by distance, were 
meditating co-operation and union in their work. In the 
year 1800 the Philadelphia Association suggested the pro- 
priety of holding a convention of associations, to be annual, 
biennial, or triennial, and the different associations in the 
United States were requested to express their opinions in 
reference to it. The question was formally submitted to the 
several churches in the Shaftsbury Association, and although 
the measure was not entertained as then feasible, yet we have 
in these movements a foreshadowing of those combinations 
for evangelical effort, which took effect a few years later. It 
was reserved for the call of Divine Providence from the 
shores of Burmah, to convince brethren in every quarter of 
the necessity of immediate organization and united action. 

With this missionary work in which the association en- 
gaged, Mr. Kendrick sympathized, and was ready to go in 
person to the destitute. In the year 1808 he made a mis- 
sionary tour into Western New York and Upper Canada. 
He was accompanied by the Rev. Clark Kendrick in this 
itinerant work. In prosecuting the object of their mission, 
they took different routes in portions of their journey, and 
while on the field, that they might extend their labors as far 



60 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

as possible, and prove mutual helpers in counsel to each other, 
and to give the feeble churches the benefit of their united 
wisdom. Their main route lay through the Mohawk Valley, 
and the great central line of travel through the Empire State. 
Entering upon apostolic work, they preached as they went, 
until they reached their designated field, which extended 
along the northern shore of Lake Ontario. They set out in 
this missionary trip on the 11th of August, and reached Lan- 
singburgh on the 9th of November. Mr. Kendrick enters this 
summary of his labors in his journal : 

" I was absent from home eighty-five days, and rode twelve 
hundred and eighty miles, preached sixty-two sermons, at- 
tended and heard eleven sermons preached by other ministers. 
Preached five funeral discourses, attended two church meet- 
ings, twice administered the Lord's supper, baptized two 
persons, attended several conferences, and met with two asso- 
ciations." 

We notice, also, from his journal, that on his way to the 
province, he spent one Lord's Day in Salisbury, one at Hart- 
ford, and one at Lewiston, and on his return he spent one in 
Canandaigua and one in Yernon. 

On his return he had the company of Father Holmes, 
the missionary at Tuscarora Village, as far as Canandaigua. 
One incident deserves a place here, showing the providential 
protection that was over them. On the 26th of October, 
soon after entering a piece of woods of thirteen miles in ex- 
tent, on the Indian Reservation, a terrific wind swept through 
the forest, more fearful than was ever known before in that 
section of country. It commenced about eleven o'clock, and 
continued for four hours, subjecting them to the greatest 
peril. In the words of Mr. Kendrick, "We had not pro- 
ceeded far before the trees fell on every side. We found no 
place for shelter, but traveled on. Our protection was too 
evidently from the hand of Providence to pass unnoticed. 
Our path was much obstructed before we got through the 
woods, by a great number of trees prostrated across it. The 



REV. NATHANIEL K END RICE, D. D. 61 

whole forest was in awful commotion for the space of four 
hours, but we escaped unhurt." 

On the next day, Mr. Kendrick was detained on his way 
to conduct the funeral services of one, who, while using all 
possible precaution to save himself from the ravages of the 
wind, was instantly killed by the falling of a limb from a 
tree in the open field, only a short distance from his own 
dwelling. " That he should be taken, and I spared to preach 
his funeral sermon," says he, " was an affecting consid- 
eration." 

The condition of this field of labor, which he then visited, 
may be seen from a few remarks, and also the preservation 
that he enjoyed under more or less exposure : 

" My health during the most of the time that I was ab- 
sent, was very good, although I traveled, on the first part of 
my mission, more than two hundred miles through a country 
where the people were very sickly. I was not prevented 
from supplying every appointment which I made. Several 
appointments failed on the part of the people. I visited no 
place where there appeared much of the work of conviction 
and conversion, but in general I met with a very serious at- 
tention to preaching. The people in the province of Upper 
Canada entertain a very grateful sense of the favors of the 
Shaftsbury Association, in every place where they have sent 
their Missionaries. There is an extensive part of the har- 
vest-field which is extremely destitute of gospel laborers. I 
can hardly imagine a place where evangelical preachers are 
more wanted. None but those who can and will preach the 
discriminating doctrines of grace, will be suitable persons to 
send. 

" It is important that we send no missionaries into that 
province but such as have prudence enough to say nothing 
against their government." 

The second missionary tour was made in 1809 ; leaving 
home on August 15th, and returning on the 10th of Novem- 
ber, consequently embracing twelve weeks. , 



62 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

Both journeys were undertaken and prosecuted with zeal 
and energy, and the exposures and discomforts were numer- 
ous, as the only possible mode of travel was on horseback, 
and the return was made at rather an inclement season. The 
result of these itinerant labors were auspicious and gratifying 
in the encouragement and edification of the churches. The 
pecuniary recompense was at the moderate rate of twenty 
dollars per month ; but the soul reward could not be mea- 
sured. 

In April, 1809, Mr. Kendrick was earnestly solicited to 
settle with the Baptist church in Clinton, Upper Canada, the 
brethren urging upon him the claims of that and sister 
churches in the province. This was gratifying evidence that 
his labors in that region, although brief, were highly appre- 
ciated. In the fall of 1809, and in the spring of 1810, he 
was warmly solicited to visit the villages of Utica and 
Whitesboro, where he had made some acquaintance in pass- 
ing through on his missionary tours — but these invitations 
he declined. The views which Mr. Kendrick then enter- 
tained of missionary work, are well set forth in an address 
published in the Minutes of the Association in the year 1810, 
from which we make an extract : 

" Beloved Brethren : We have taken under consideration 
the general interests of Zion, as far as we have had an op- 
portunity to extend our inquiries. The subject of Missions 
to the destitute parts of our country, and even to regions 
beyond, we deem of sufficient importance to merit a more 
general attention than you have heretofore given it. 

" You are anticipating the period when the gospel shall be 
preached among all nations, and Christ shall have " the 
heathen for his inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the 
earth for his possession." You know that " faith cometh by 
hearing, and hearing by the word of God." "And how shall 
they hear without a preacher ; and how shall they preach 
except they be sent ?" There are extensive parts of the 
harvest which have hitherto been unnoticed bv the laborers 



EEV. NATHANIEL K E N D K I C K, D. D. 63 

of the vineyard. Who can tell why the events of Providence 
were so arranged, as to convey the gospel to us, in distinc- 
tion from any of the darkest regions of the world ? Have 
we received the gospel, as the miser does gold, that we may 
treasure it up in some secret deposit, where it will be useless 
to ourselves and others ? Surely not. Were we to inherit 
it, in this way, it would eat as doth a canker, and eventually 
prove a savor of death unto death. 

"A few churches and individuals in this Association, have 
for several years past made worthy exertions to send mis- 
sionaries into destitute places ; while others have withheld 
even the smallest encouragement. We cannot think those 
who duly appreciate the benefits of the gospel, can for a mo- 
ment dispute the duty and necessity of those exertions. 
They have hitherto been attended with the blessings of 
Heaven, and the hearts of many in the wilderness have been 
made glad. This is a cause worthy of the patronage of 
every Christian. Were all the members of the Association 
to pay only six cents annually, it would amount to more than 
has been raised in any one year since the commencement of 
the Institution. Were each to pay but one cent a month, it 
would produce the annual sum of $398 52. Were we to go 
as far as the females in Boston, Providence, and Salem, who 
are constituted into mite societies, and tax themselves with a 
cent a week, we should annually raise $1,126 92. Is it neces- 
sary to take the most parsimonious measures, to wring from 
the hands of Christians a few cents of their abundance, to 
support that cause which they deem of infinite importance ? 
What shall we think of that conscience, which can give dol- 
lars for ornaments to appear in the fashions of the world, 
and scrupulously withhold even cents in the cause of God ? 
We are persuaded, Brethren, that many of you have incon- 
siderately overlooked your duty respecting this important 
subject. A word to the wise is sufficient. We hope, at our 
next annual meeting, no church will fail of their liberality, 
and that our Missionary Society will meet with a more gen- 



64 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

eral patronage. May we be helpers together of each other's 
joy, and be cordially united in the most effectual means for 
extending the triumphs of the cross. May we not shrink 
at the burden and heat of the day, but be found faithful unto 
death. Brethren, the time is short, when this world will be 
no more with us. May we at last, through grace, exchange 
it for those mansions in our Father's house which are re- 
served for the everlasting habitations of the saints." 

While acting as the pastor of the Church in Lansingburgh 
an event transpired of great moment to himself, and the cause 
of Christ. We refer to his marriage, which took place in 
December 11th, 1808. The lady with whom this useful and 
happy union was formed was Miss Eliza Choate, of Lansing- 
burgh. We may gain some proper understanding of his 
motives in this change of his relations, by a few paragraphs 
from his pen, which reveal a heart studying ever devout and 
reverent submission to the divine will : 

" I know not what arrangements to make to be the most 
free of embarrassments, that I may give myself the more 
fully to the work I have undertaken. I have been for some 
time in a state of suspense, respecting my duty in a matter 
which must materially affect me through life. I know not 
what I ought to do. I have too much neglected asking direc- 
tion of God. thou merciful Jehovah, suffer me not to act 
blindly and without thine approbation and direction. 
that thou wouldst grant me wisdom from above to guide 
me in the way of understanding. Be pleased to grant thy 
Spirit to lead my mind to a decision which will be favorable 
to my duty and usefulness. Enable me to withstand every 
sinful and selfish consideration ; and be contented with the 
allotments of thy holy providence. 

" permit me not to go astray in the following things : — 

" 1st. Respecting my duty about the important change in 
my affairs, which has been an object of serious meditation 
with me of late. 

" that I may be led duly to consider and sufficiently 



RET. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 65 

weigh, the circumstances which belong to the subject. Shall 
I be more or less encumbered — will these encumbrances 
materially embarrass me in my calling — will there be suffi- 
cient advantages to counterbalance all disadvantages ? 

" My wisdom and discernment are totally incompetent to 
determine these questions. These things must be deter- 
mined by an over-ruling Providence ; and to this Providence 
let me appeal for this direction. 

" thou gracious God, for the sake of thy precious cause 
in the world — for the sake of thy dear Son — and for the sake 
of thine own glory — wisely interpose, and determine things 
as thou shalt please, and ever grant me a willing submission 
to thy holy and sovereign dictates. 

" 2d. Respecting the means by which such a change may, 
with propriety, be accomplished. 

" Let thy wisdom and power ordain and establish the 
means. It belongs to thee to appoint means as well as 
ends. Those of thine appointment will best suit the end 
for which they are designed. God let thy providence 
determine. Thou hast hitherto had the disposal, for which 
thou art worthy of my unfeigned thanks. Furnish me with 
that wisdom and prudence which will enable me to conduct 
the matter with uprightness, and leave no injurious impres- 
sions on my mind." 

Again, upon the same subject, we find the following : — 

" that God would grant me the unfeigned spirit of 
thankfulness, for his over-ruling providence, and for the 
establishment of mind which I have been enabled to obtain 
through thy mercy. thou gracious God, let no earthly 
object possess that place in my heart which belongs alone to 
thee, but enable me to esteem thee above all ; and then 
my affection to another will be such as will neither be offen- 
sive to thee, nor dangerous to happiness. May I ever be 
satisfied with the allotments of thy providence. Grant 
gracious God the constant influence of thy spirit to keep my 
heart and mind in thy love. 

6* 



66 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

" May the object of my highest affection in the world be a 
friend to thee. May our hearts be sanctified to thy service, 
and may we live as heirs of the grace of life. let thy 
mercies follow us like a mighty stream through time, and 
may grace convey us to an everlasting rest in thy kingdom." 

A union entered upon with such care and circumspection, 
was productive of domestic happiness, and the source of 
increased usefulness. The fruit of this marriage was three 
children, two daughters and one son. The eldest child, 
Eliza, became the wife of Zenas Morse, for many years the 
very successful principal of Hamilton Academy, and for a 
while also Professor of Languages in Brockport Collegiate 
Institute. She died at the age of twenty-six years. The 
second child died in infancy. Of the son, Silas N. Kendrick 
we need only here say that his memoir accompanies the 
father's in this volume. 

Among the inducements which Mr. Kendrick had for 
seeking a new field of labor, were the want of support in an 
entire devotement of his energies to the ministry, and a field 
too limited for his ability. The matter is fully expressed in 
a letter of correspondence between him and the churches of 
Utica and Whitesborough. 

" My brethren here, are full in the sentiment ' that those 
who preach the gospel should live of the gospel,' and their 
disposition to do is beyond their abilities ; but their number 
is small, and my principal support comes from four or five. 
I have done much towards supporting myself by a school, 
but this embarrassment has been submitted to with a degree 
of reluctance. I am not bound to the people here, but by 
affection, a bond which has by no means become impaired. 
I am at liberty to make you a visit agreeably to request." 

The above was written November 23d, 1809. He then 
meditated a visit to the above named churches, but subse- 
quently his plans were changed, and his removal was to an 
eastern field, in the State of Yermont. This removal took 
place in October of the following year. The farewell dis- 



KEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 67 

course delivered on the 14th of October, from which we give 
an extract, was full of counsel and good will. It was founded 
upon these words, " Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, 
be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace ; and the 
God of love and peace shall be with you. " 

" I have endeavored, my brethren, to lay before you the 
apostolic direction which marks the Christian's way to Heaven. 
The period has now arrived, according to the evident dictates 
of Providence, for me to relinquish my charge over you. I 
have told you the ground on which I wish to leave you, and 
the way in which I can bid you farewell. 

" You know my manner of life ever since I have been with 
you ; you find many things to forgive ; I have been with you 
in weakness and fear ; I have tried to set before you the gospel 
of the grace of God, and distinguish between true and false 
religion : I have tried to feed the sheep and lambs of Christ 
with the provision of His house ; how far I have come short 
of my duty, and the errors I have committed, the heavens will 
by and by make known. I can assure you a retrospect of the 
past affords me but very little pleasure. The barrenness which 
has accompanied my own soul, and the barrenness which has 
accompanied my labors among you, has been, and still is to 
me a source of pain. I have no remaining hope of acceptance 
with God, but in his sovereign, electing grace. You will never 
forget to remember me in your prayers. I leave you, my 
brethren, in an evil world ; your way is dangerous ; in the 
path you have nothing to fear, but on both sides are bottom- 
less pits. 

" At this period of the world, there is much false religion. 
May your deeds be wrought in God, and your faith and hope 
be the fruits of his Spirit. You stand before the world as a 
church of Christ. The public worship of God is an indis- 
pensable duty in which His declarative glory, and your own 
happiness, are both concerned. 

"Keep your doors shut against ministers irregular in prac- 
tice, and unsound in doctrine. Do not encourage speakers with 



68 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

ill acquired recommendations, or without any. Forsake not 
the assembling of yourselves together, as the manner of some 
is. Maintain the discipline of the house of God, suffer not 
siD upon a brother. Be much in prayer. Be watchful, be vigi- 
lant, be faithful unto death, and the Lord will give you a crown 
of life. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to 
the word of His grace. Finally, brethren, farewell ! Be per- 
fect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace, and 
the God of peace shall be with you. Amen and amen. 

" A word to the congregation. It is in my heart to bid you 
farewell, but I cannot say it will be well with you if you love 
not our Lord Jesus Christ. The scripture says, let such be ac- 
cursed. I have been pointing out the only way in which souls 
can have any hope of future felicity. 

"All your kindnesses to me are most gratefully acknow- 
ledged, and I commend you to the Christian's God. May 
you be found among the chosen of God, when he shall make 
up his jewels. Finally, my friends, farewell !" 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 69 



CHAPTER YIL 

Removal to Middlebury — Prespects of the Field — Middlebury College — 
Numerous and Varied Labors — Extension of his Field — Monkton 
Embraced — Epidemic — Duties thereby Multiplied — Deaths in Middle- 
bury — Deaths in his own Family. 

We follow now the labors of Mr. Kendrick in his second 
pastorate. His attention was first called to the Baptist inte- 
rest in Middlebury, Yt., by the Rev. Sylvanus Haynes, in the 
summer of 1810. It so happened, in the providence of God, 
that Mr. Haynes spent one Lord's Day with the newly con- 
stituted church in Middlebury. As the church had no house 
of worship, the Court House was used as a temporary sanc- 
tuary, a practice common in the shire towns, with interests 
too feeble to be otherwise provided. In this hall of human 
justice, Mr. Haynes gave forth the messages of divine mercy, 
in three regular services upon that day. Such was the cha- 
racter of the assemblies, in point of number, respectability, 
and attention to the word, that he was favorably impressed 
with the fair prospects of the church. The anxiety and de- 
termination evinced on the part of the people, to have a minister 
of the Baptist order, and the spirit and zeal apparent in their 
plans to support him, whom they hoped to obtain to go in and 
out before them, left no doubt in Mr. Haynes's mind, that at 
no distant day, with suitable labor, a church of strength and 
commanding influence might be gathered. 

The people, deeply solicitous to procure the right man, lost 
no time in seeking a person to serve them. In reply to their 
urgent inquiries for an eligible candidate, Mr. Haynes directed 
their attention to Mr. Kendrick, of Lansinburgh. The sugges- 
tion of his name, and the persuasion that he possessed the 
qualifications requisite to cultivate the field, and conduct the 



70 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

interest with success, prompted them without delay to open 
a correspondence with him. 

The official steps were taken on the part of the church, to 
obtain, if possible, a visit from Mr. Kendrick, embracing a 
period of two or three months, or such length of time as he 
might deem proper for a mutual acquaintance. In this pro- 
posal of a visit, the church engaged to render satisfactory 
compensation for his services. 

This invitation for a visit came to hand on the ninth of 
July, with the request that the messenger sent, should bring 
back an immediate answer. Compliance with this, imposed 
upon Mr. Kendrick the necessity of acting without the ad- 
vice and expressed wishes of his brethren towards whom he 
uniformly showed a deference, even when after mature con- 
victions he was compelled to differ from them. Although free 
to enter upon any engagements that should hold out the 
promise of increased usefulness, yet his committal to pay 
them a visit, is penned in the following guarded language, 
addressed to the Clerk of the Church. 

" Dear Sir : 

" Yours of the 9th inst. was handed me this morning, and an 
answer requested this afternoon ; of course I have not time 
to lay the matter before my brethren for their approbation. 
Although I am not holden to them by any stipulation, yet I 
think it my duty to consult their judgment if not their feelings 
in the case. I presume they would have no objections to my 
being absent from them two or three weeks, in which time I 
might make you a visit, and longer than that I cannot con- 
sistently leave home. 

" You request the visit to be soon, if convenient. I know 
not but I can come shortly, as well as a few weeks hence. 
I think it most likely I can come next week and spend two 
or three Sabbaths with you. If not next week, I will endeavor, 
by the leave of Providence, to be there the week after. If 



KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 71 

this calculation should be interrupted by any intervening 
providence, I will give you the earliest information by mail. 
" Yours, respectfully, in the best of bonds, 

* Capt. Rogers. NATHANIEL KENDRICK 

" Lansingburgh, July llth, 1810," 

The proposed visit was soon made, and an opportunity 
furnished for a mutual acquaintance of minister and people. 

The result of this brief intercourse, was a call from the 
Middlebury Church to become its Pastor at a salary of three 
hundred dollars per year, including subscriptions, house-rent 
and fire-wood ; the expenses of removal to be borne by the 
church. The communication containing the proposals for 
settlement bears date September 20th, 1810. The reply to 
that letter is as follows : 

" Lansinburgh, October 8th, 1810. 
u Dear Sir : 

" Your letter in behalf of the Baptist Church in Middlebury, 
dated September 20th, was duly received. That I might 
not give them a premature answer, I have been daily de- 
liberating with prayerful attention upon the subject ever 
since their first intimations. It has been with no small diffi- 
culty, that my mind has become sufficiently settled on the 
subject, to give you anything like a decided answer. 

" I find I had not fully anticipated that degree of reluctance, 
with which my brethren here submit to your proposition. 

" In view of all circumstances, however, I am inclined to 
think the more evident dictates of Providence are in favor of 
my complying with your request. Under this conviction, I 
make you my answer in the affirmative, and if God will, shall 
endeavor to come and serve you the proposed term of one 
year, on the conditions stipulated in your letter. 

" You have, dear brethren, had a short opportunity to 
know that I am but a poor earthen vessel ; a further ac- 
quaintance will inform you that I am of myself an empty 



72 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

vessel and easily broken. But, such as I am, I hope, while 
with you, to be your servant for Jesus' sake. 

" In the hope and fellowship of the Gospel, 

" I subscribe myself your unworthy brother, 

" NATHANIEL KENDRICK. 

"To the Baptist Church, Middlebury." 

The field of labor in the new pastorate held out con- 
siderable promise of success. The church though small, for 
it was only organized in the winter preceding Mr. Kendrick's 
settlement in Middlebury, had received several accessions 
and could rejoice in the union and spiritual life of its 
members. One very encouraging feature was, that the 
audiences were both large and attentive. This awakened 
the reasonable hope of increase to the church, and of extensive 
usefulness to the community. Middlebury was the shire 
town of Addison County, and the seat of Middlebury College, 
which was founded in 1800, and although not embracing a 
very large number of students, was yet doing an important 
work in the cause of education. This was to Mr. Kendrick's 
mind no indifferent feature in the parish ; for although he 
had not been favored with a collegiate course of study him- 
self, still his tastes and aspirations were in that direction. 
Intercourse with the students, some of whom were members 
of Baptist Churches, and candidates for the ministry, served 
to foster in him habits that were highly serviceable to him in 
after life. The presence of the college gave of course to the 
church, and to his relation to it as pastor, an importance be- 
yond that which attached itself to a church remote from a 
high seminary of learning. We cannot regard it as a casual 
thing, that Mr. Kendrick occupied a post in close proximity 
to this seat of education for about seven years, witnessing its 
Commencements, and in various ways receiving the legitimate 
benefits of such an institution. The belief in providence will 
recognize in this residence a special means by which God 



REV. NATHANIEL KEN DEICK, D. D. 73 

was fitting him for his own subsequent agency in the im- 
portant work of ministerial education. Nor was he without 
direct spiritual contact with the members of the college. 
His journal records the fact of his visiting several young 
gentlemen in the college who were under awakening, with 
the approval, if not the presence of one of the faculty of 
instruction. A revival was, indeed, manifestly in progress, 
and the journal breathes forth the petition that alike there, 
and in the vicinity, G-od would carry on his work and build 
up his kingdom. 

The relations of a pastor were at that time, and in that 
town, quite numerous and his duties much diversified. Dur- 
ing a portion of the time in this pastorate, the last war was 
in progress, and a number of soldiers were stationed at Mid- 
dlebury. Mr. Kendrick visited them at their barracks, and 
held service with them. Wherever his gifts were sought in 
the line of his vocation, he was equally ready to exercise 
them for others' good, whether it were among the well known 
people of his care, or among strangers ; the students in the 
college, or the common soldiery, or the members of the learned 
professions, on the bench or at the bar ; among all alike he 
was ready to bestow his labors as a minister of the cross. 
In some respects the custom of that day differed from that which 
is now we believe generally prevalent. It was then deemed 
appropriate to open the Sessions of Courts by a recognition 
of the Judge of all the earth, in the solemn exercise of 
prayer. This service was conducted by clergymen. Thus 
in an official manner all classes were reached, some individuals 
of which might not be found in the sanctuary to observe its 
stated services. This passing allusion, will help us to form a 
just idea of the manifold labors of a New England clergyman, 
forty or fifty years ago. In this manifold variety of labor Mr. 
Kendrick had his full share. 

After one or two years labor in Middlebury, the pastor of 
a single church becomes the pastor of two. In the town of 
Monkton, situated about sixteen miles North of Middlebury, 

7 



74 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

a small church makes application for stated preaching one 
half the time. During two years, therefore, Mr. Kendrick 
divided his pulpit labors between these two places. It is not 
in our power to state with definiteness the measure of success 
enjoyed in this outpost. In the second year, however, a 
house of worship was dedicated, an event thus referred to 
in his journal : " May God follow with his blessing the 
opportunity, and render the place glorious by his Spirit 
and grace." 

Two fields of labor, separated by a distance of sixteen miles, 
may be easily conceived to have imposed upon him very 
arduous labors. But besides this he was burdened with still 
other engagements. His limited salary compelled him in the 
autumn of 1812 to open a school which soon contained not 
fewer than fifty pupils. His time was thus so completely en- 
grossed as scarcely to allow any opportunity for relaxation. 

At the expiration of two years, the church in Middlebury 
called him to serve them the whole time. This brought him 
again to the limits of a single parish. 

Without attempting to delineate the labors of each year, 
we shall notice barely the prominent events that transpired 
in connection with this pastorate. 

The year 1813 may be selected as abounding in severe 
labors. It will be recollected by many who read these pages, 
as a year of desolation and unwonted sorrow, on account of 
a widely prevalent mortality. A fatal epidemic raged exten- 
sively in Yermont, New Hampshire, Northern New York, 
and in some parts of Massachusetts, spreading alarm far and 
near, and hastening many to an unexpected grave. The 
number of deaths in the town of Middlebury alone was not 
less than seventy, embracing for the most part heads of fami- 
lies. In some instances husband and wife were laid at once 
in a common grave. In others the disease, in its terrible malig- 
nity, swept away five from a single family. Several corpses 
would be awaiting burial in a single township at the same 
time. 



D. D. 75 

From the New England Journal of Medicine and Surgery, 
we gather the following facts pertaining to this dreadful dis- 
ease : 

" This complaint made its first appearance in the autumn 
of 1812, among the soldiers at Greenbush, its ravages were 
afterwards remarkable in the army of the United States in 
various places ; at Plattsburgh, Burlington, Sackett's Harbor, 
Boston, and Charleston. Its severity in the army was attri- 
butable to the sudden change of the mode of living of the 
newly enlisted soldiers, to intemperance, and exposure to the 
weather. During the winter, it appeared among the citizens 
of Vermont, and the Northern part of New York, and at the 
close of winter, in some of the interior towns of Massachu- 
setts, and sporadically in various parts of the United States. 
Its fatality among the soldiers, and in a few places among the 
citizens, was considerable." 

The cause which disposed to this disease was supposed to 
exist in the atmosphere. The exciting causes were, ex- 
posure to cold, and moisture, and fatigue, especially after ex- 
cesses and debauchery of any kind. 

There were appearances in the disease which served to 
identify it with what was called the " spotted fever" or tech- 
nically the " petecchial fever" which prevailed in 1810. The 
apparent differences arose from the head having been most 
affected in the epidemic of 1810, and the lungs in that of 
1813. The latter disease was called by a medical committee ap- 
pointed to report upon it in a given district in New York State, 
viz.: Saratoga, " The Bilious Pneumonia," and in the city of 
Albany, the typhoid tendency of the fever induced a respect- 
able physician to call the epidemic the " Peripneumonia Ty- 
phoides." 

The epidemic was not contagious we understand. 

The mournful condition into which families, and whole dis- 
tricts were suddenly thrown, imposed heavy duties upon the 
ministry. Mr. Kendrick, from the fact of having occupied 
more than his one pulpit in Middlebury, was often called into 



76 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

adjoining townships, and his list of funerals was very 
large. 

During the autumn of the same year, he was called to meet 
affliction in a form before untried. A little daughter, the 
second by birth, upon whom two summers had shed their 
smiling beauty, was removed from the family circle by death. 
This first summons to the silent yard of graves to drop the 
tear of bereaved affection, was followed by a second in the 
ensuing spring, to inter a female friend and member of his 
family, who died of consumption. Prior to these visitations 
of death in his own family, the circle of relatives near and 
remote, had been frequently invaded, and the excellent and 
godly father of Mr. Kendrick, writes him upon the receipt of 
the intelligence of the first affliction, expressing the hope that 
these strokes of divine providence may be sanctified to their 
spiritual good. 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 77 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Death, of Mrs. Kendrick — Extract from his Journal — Letters of Condo- 
lence — Specimen of a Week's Labor — Visit of Luther Rice — Co- 
operation of Mr. Kendrick — War — Its Effects upon our Northern 
Frontiers — Naval Battle on Lake Champlain — Striking Contrast. 

We are not allowed to pass over a wide interval before we 
have to record another bereavement. It is a heavier stroke. 
A child was first summoned, but in about two years the 
mother of the child and the wife of his bosom was removed 
from her earthly toils. Called often to comfort others in 
their sorrow, his heart would even melt with tender sympa- 
thy ; but then only could he thoroughly master, under the 
teachings of a bitter experience, the lesson which is taught 
to a bereaved husband. The precious companion's life, and 
her faithful and valued labors of six years, served now to 
make Mr. Kendrick's loss the more severe ; and the vacancy 
in his home and his heart was all the greater, as he looked 
upon two motherless children. This decease was not sudden. 
There were premonitions of its approach. In the long and 
painful illness of this Christian woman, she gave evidence of 
her patient submission to the will of her Heavenly Father, 
and of her meetness for the mansions above. Her release 
from a body of death occurred October 11th, 1815. Just at 
a period when it might be said that her usefulness had fairly 
begun, her life closed. In her twenty-seventh year, she 
rested from her labors. 

The following entries in his journal, will exhibit the emo- 
tions of the bereaved husband : 

" Wednesday, 11th. The ushering in of this day is marked 
with the most trying dispensation of providence that I have 
ever experienced. My dear companion was called of God 

out of time at a quarter past four, which summons she 

7* 



78 EEV. NATHANIEL 

obeyed with apparent willingness. She is gone ! alas 1 She 
will never return ! And can I ask for her back ? no. 
God's will is done. I am alone with two motherless chil- 
dren, but God is able to provide. thou Divine Spirit, be 
entreated to write the law of submission upon my heart. 
grant thy supporting presence ; and by this wise and holy 
chastisement, wean thy sinful creature more from this world. 
O do thou prepare him more for thy service. May he not 
be left to dishonor the profession he has made ; but may he 
glorify God in this affliction. give him the spirit of 
prayer ; may he have the Spirit in the closet, in his family, 
and in the church of God. May the word of God be made 
a blessing to him. May he be enabled to train up his little 
ones for thee. One thou hast taken, and may the others 
be trained up and consecrated to thee. Will God take 
possession of their hearts by his grace, and according to the 
multitude of his mercies, show them mercy. Will God be 
pleased to supply them in his own way with mercies ade- 
quate to their bereavement, in the loss of a dear and affec- 
tionate mother. May it please thee, O God, to sanctify this 
stroke to us all." 

" Thursday, 12th. This day the remains of my dead com- 
panion are with me. I think God has not wholly withdrawn 
his presence and his mercies from me. for a heart to im- 
prove this bereaving stroke of his providence to his glory. 
Be pleased, thou Father of Mercies, to support thine un- 
worthy and sinful creature, and give him a heart to praise 
thee. Enable him to say, ' all is well. 7 Thanks to God 
that he has so ordered it in his providence, that I should 
have two of my brothers (Adin and Eleazer having arrived 
this day) to visit and mourn with me on this occasion." 

" Friday, 13th. This day I commit the remains of my 
dear companion to the tomb. 

" Elder Green preached on the occasion in the Congrega- 
tional meeting house from Matthew 24 : 44 — a good sermon. 

" God, thou knowest how far my heart has been sub- 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 79 

missive to thee under this holy chastisement. grant me 
the spirit of thankfulness for that composure of mind which 
thou hast afforded me to-day, and may I not say, some 
reconciliation of heart. permit me to cast myself into the 
arms of thy grace and love, with my dear little ones, and 
may the Holy Spirit be permitted to extend his comfort to 
my aching heart. Remember the aged and afflicted mother 
of the deceased ; grant her thy supporting presence. Sanc- 
tify the dealings of thy hand to us all." 

In this hour of desolating bereavement, however, Christian 
sympathy was not wanting ; and so far as this element could 
assuage the sorrow of the husband's heart, it was most 
generously tendered. As a slight tribute of respect for the 
deceased, and a token of sympathy for their afflicted pastor, 
the female friends of the Baptist Church and Society of 
Middlebury caused a monument to be reared, with this sim- 
ple inscription : 

"0 reign forever, mighty King, 

Born to redeem and strong to save, 
Death! cruel monster ! where's thy sting? 
And where's thy victory, boasting grave?" 

Among the list of Mr. Kendrick's letters, we find one or 
two which merit a place here, to show the extent and degree 
of that sympathy which was tendered him in this affliction : 

"Boston, November Itth, 1815. 
" Rev. and Dear Sir : 

" Your very interesting and affecting epistle of the 18th 

ult., by Mr. , was handed me on his way to Roxbury. 

I desire to sympathize with you in your present affliction. 
I am not altogether a stranger to your feelings, having been 
called to pass through the same trying scene. But under all 
our trials we rest assured, that our Heavenly Father does 
not grieve willingly, nor afflict the children of men without a 
need be. We are too prone to fix our attachments to earthly 
objects, without duly considering that they are all uncertain ; 



80 REV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

yet this evidently is the tenure by which we hold all earthly 
joys. As one considerable stream of earthly comfort is dried 
up, I hope you may be led nearer to the fountain. I trust 
you can say with the Psalmist, ' God is the strength of my 
heart, and my portion forever. 1 He is indeed an ever 
present portion, an all-sufficient portion, and an eternal 
portion. Can we then be destitute while enjoying this ? 
Surely we cannot. 

" I hope, dear sir, your affliction may be sanctified to you. 
The comfort afforded you in the last hours of your dear 
companion, must greatly mitigate your grief. When our 
friends die in the Lord, we cannot consider them lost, but 
only gone before, and it will be but a little time before we 
shall follow them. 

" I hope, my brother, that those sweet consolations which 
you have been enabled to impart to others, may be richly 
poured into your own soul. 

" I subscribe myself your affectionate friend and brother, 

" THOS. BALDWIN. 

"Rev. Mr. Kendrick." 

A few weeks later than the date of the above letter, Mr. 
Kendrick received a note of condolence from Ira Chase, then 
a student at Andover Seminary, and known during many 
subsequent years as Professor Chase of Newton Theological 
Seminary. 

" What shall I say ? Dear sir, the intelligence has reached 
me that Mrs. Kendrick is no more. Shall I attempt to con- 
sole you ? I need not do it. All the sources of consolation 
which I could mention have long since been familiar to your 
mind. But permit me to say that I sympathize with you in the 
afflictions through which you have been called to pass. You 
are not forgotten in my most serious hours. Often have I 
thought of you with the tenderest emotions ; and never may 
I cease to pray for your welfare. for that faith which sus- 



HE V. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 81 

tains and soothes the soul amidst the severest trials, and 
enables the afflicted to look with rapture beyond this vale of 
tears to that blessed world where God shall wipe away all 
tears from their eyes I" 

But if the year 1813 was signalized by severe and painful 
toils devolved upon him by the ravages of death around him, 
and its invasion of his own family circle, the year which fol- 
lowed was one of toil scarcely less arduous. With a school 
upon his hands, and with numerous calls into surrounding 
towns to bury the dead, and administer the ordinances of 
Christ's house, he must have failed in strength but for his 
remarkably robust constitution, and his resolute spirit. We 
select a single week as a specimen. We have the customary 
services upon the Lord's Day ; a funeral discourse upon 
Wednesday ; on Thursday a lecture in New Haven, and on 
Friday a discourse and the ordinance of baptism administered 
to five candidates in Cornwall, where we learn that a revival 
was in progress. Had the above services been required in 
one place, and from a man freed from the burden of a school, 
or had the occurrence been a rare one, we might not count it 
worthy of special notice ; but the weeks were often inter- 
rupted in a similar manner. His long acquaintance in the 
region, and its destitution of Baptist ministers, subjected him 
to many calls which in better supplied communities would 
have been shared with others. But these manifold and heavy 
drafts on his time and strength, Mr. Kendrick ever met with 
the utmost cheerfulness and the strictest punctuality. The 
ministry had never been contemplated by him as a sinecure. 
He had consecrated himself to a life of toil ; and Providence 
which blessed him with the will to act, endowed him also 
with a power of endurance corresponding to the exigences 
of his position. 

This year did not pass away without a cheering event. 
" God, who comforteth those that are cast down," comforted 
the brethren in Middlebury by the coming of Luther Rice, 



82 REV. 

recently returned from Burniah. The mission of Mr. Rice 
among the American churches, constituted an epoch in the 
history of the Baptist denomination. His visits were every- 
where received with enthusiasm, and were productive of great 
good. Wherever he went, he kindled a missionary spirit, and 
his peculiar position invested him with an influence which no 
other man could command, save his worthy compeer, Judson. 
Mr. Rice had made many sacrifices of feeling to become a Bap- 
tist. This step had been taken in the face of powerful deno- 
minational influences, and proved the occasion for severe stric- 
tures from brethren, whom in charity we believe to have been 
sincerely devoted to the interests of Christ's kingdom, both at 
home and abroad. The presence of one who, for truth's sake, 
had sundered the ties of religious brotherhood, and had, in 
his zeal for the propagation of the gospel, actually penetrated 
the realms of heathenism, was calculated to create a lively 
and lasting interest in the cause of foreign missions. 

In this tour of visitation to the churches, Mr. Rice's object 
was to influence and encourage them to adopt the plan and 
policy inaugurated in the Triennial Convention that had been 
formed at Philadelphia on the 18th of May of that year. In 
the formation of that missionary body, delegates from eleven 
states had cordially united, and now its accredited agent, in 
the person of Mr. Rice, was urging its claims upon the chari- 
ties of the denomination, for promoting the cause of Chris- 
tianity in Burniah. Following out the direction of the Board, 
that he should spend the year in the northern and middle 
states, Mr. Rice came in course to Middlebury. His visit 
was made in August, during the anniversary exercises of the 
college. He spent about ten days in the town, preaching six 
times, and on one occasion in the College Hall. His imme- 
diate method of operation was to form state missionary soci- 
eties, auxiliary to the Baptist Board of Foreign Missions, 
and then in towns and in associations, societies auxiliary to 
the state organization. 

Into these views and plans Mr. Kendrick entered with 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 83 

heartiness, and though severely ill during a part of the time 
that Mr. Rice remained in the town, still he did all in his 
power to make way for the favorable reception both of him 
and the cause which he represented. Subsequently he be- 
came Corresponding Secretary of the Vermont Missionary 
Society, auxiliary to the parent body, and Mr. Rice urged 
upon him the task of collecting the statistics of the churches 
and associations in his connection, and suggested the desira- 
bleness of obtaining the same throughout the state. 

This early acquaintance with Mr. Rice, who, more than 
any other man, was instrumental in forming the Triennial 
Convention, prepared the way for Mr. Kendrick's co-opera- 
tion in the foreign mission work, and led him, perhaps, to 
an intelligent estimate of the unspeakable importance of that 
institution, to which, in after years, he was so deeply 
devoted. Being also a cotemporary with the men who were 
leading spirits in the work of missions, both home and 
foreign, he had the advantage of a personal knowledge of 
the incipient steps of the whole enterprize. We have shown 
in one of the foregoing chapters that he was thoroughly 
identified with home missions, for he gave himself to go in 
person into the new settlements of western New York and 
Upper Canada, to preach Christ to the pioneers of the wilder- 
ness. Further on in our narrative we hope to point out the 
part which he performed in developing another agency, which 
lies at the basis of all our systems of benevolent labor, and 
has trained multitudes of consecrated spirits for high useful- 
ness, alike in our own land and on heathen shores. 

Yet another cause rendered this year a memorable one to 
the people in that section of the country in which Mr. 
Kendrick was laboring ; this was the varying fortunes of the 
war which then raged along the northern frontiers. The 
struggle which began in 1812 had not yet terminated, though 
in the early part of this year's campaign there was a lull to 
the war. A proposition made by the British Government to 
negotiate a peace at London, or Gottenburgh, had been 



84 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

accepted, and distinguished statesmen were on their way to 
effect so desirable an object. But in the meantime the for- 
tunes of England underwent a change. Napoleon Bonaparte, 
the great military chieftain, who had been turning the plains 
of Europe into fields of carnage, had been checked in his 
victories, and was forced to abdicate his throne and retire to 
the island of Elba. Great Britian, now at peace with all the 
world, except the United States, could direct against her 
single foe her immense force, which was before divided 
between France, her near antagonist, and the more distant 
enemy across the water. Soon, from the ports of conquered 
France, veteran and victorious armies were wafted across the 
Atlantic, some destined to the South and some to the North. 
In the early part of September the northern section of New 
York was invaded by an army of fourteen thousand men. 
Plattsburgh, located near the shore of Lake Champlain, was 
the coveted prize ; or rather it was the object of this large 
force to capture the American fleet anchored there. This 
movement of the enemy threw the country into great excite- 
ment and just alarm, particularly Yermont and northern New 
York. As intelligence of this movement was rapidly dis- 
seminated, large numbers of our militia were rallying at the 
seat of war to repel the anticipated assault. 

This state of agitation and fear was any thing but propi- 
tious to the cause of religion. It turned the thoughts of the 
people from the salvation of their souls to the safety of their 
persons and possesssions. Their homes were threatened 
with invasion, and there was little time to give to serious 
reflection. This feeling reached its culmination when the 
celebrated naval engagement took place upon Lake Cham- 
plain, in which the American forces achieved a great victory, 
and which also closed the campaign on the northern frontier. 

It shows how disastrous warlike operations are to religion, 
that in this instance the naval action occurred upon the Lord's 
Day, thus trampling in the dust this strong bulwark of Christi- 
anity. But this very fact brings the different classes of forces 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 85 

which are acting upon the world's destiny into immediate and 
interesting contrast. 

While upon the western shore of the lake the sons of 
Britain and our own land stain its crystal waters with their 
blood, on the other side of Charnplain, and away inland a few 
miles, in a pretty town of Vermont, is another and a very 
different scene. One is there engaged in extending a king- 
dom, the victories of which are not pushed forward " with 
confused noise, and garments rolled in blood," but "with the 
sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." There stands 
the ambassador of Christ, making known to sinful men the 
terms of peace and reconciliation with God. He makes no 
flourish of trumpets, no parade of arms. Enlisted under the 
Prince of Peace, his mission is to preach those principles, 
which in their adoption are destined to convert the " sword 
into a plough-share and the spear into a pruning-hook," and 
dispose nations to renounce the inhuman art of war, and 
learn it no more. On that memorable day, the eleventh of 
September, the text from which Mr. Kendrick preached was 
this, " Repent ye, therefore, and be converted, that your sins 
may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come 
from the presence of the Lord." He occupied the whole day 
upon this passage. We claim not to know the effect of that 
day's labors. Of course we cannot say that its achievements 
were superior to any other day's doings in the kingdom of 
Christ, but we may safely say that the labors of that day, in 
connection with many other similar ones, were directly instru- 
mental in preparing Mr. Kendrick, himself, to be of essential 
service to many who are now standard-bearers in Zion, and 
are pushing their victories towards the final conquest of the 
world. 

How striking the contrast which inevitably forces itself 
upon the mind, as we turn from the record of the acts of the 
unpretending pastor, to the record of victories which wreath 
an army with laurels ! Of the two contemporary classes of 
events, the quiet preaching of the cross in a New England 

8 



D.D. 

parish attracts but slight notice, while the naval triumph fills 
a conspicuous page in history, and in universal estimation 
sheds added glory upon the nation. At a future day all this 
may be reversed, and the world may be constrained to believe 
that the Christian ministry, leading forward to moral con- 
quests, is superior to the sword in the hands of a trained 
soldiery. The sacramental hosts of God's elect fulfill an 
incomparably nobler function than the marshalled hosts that 
wade through slaughter to victory. 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 87 



CHAPTER IX. 

Embarrassments in the Field — Thoughts of Removal — Request to visit 
Sangerfield — Correspondence — Visit to Sangerfield— Madison Asso- 
ciation— Re-engagement at Middlebury — Numerous Applications — 
Correspondence with the Baptist Churches in Eaton — Visit — Call — 
Close of his Labors in Middlebury — Revival. 

Mr. Kendrick continued to labor in Middlebury and vici- 
nity, until the spring of 18 IT. He was subjected to the very 
great embarrassment of deriving only a meagre support from 
his people, and under the necessity of teaching a select school, 
for about one half of the time, to make up the deficiencies of 
his salary. Here was still another disadvantage which it was 
desirable to remove : his labors were divided between the 
church in Middlebury and feeble interests in neighboring towns, 
which engrossed more or less of that precious time in passing 
from one station to another, which otherwise might have been 
given with more effectiveness to one field. During the year 
1816, there were several indications of divine providence, 
that it might be duty for him to meditate a removal to a field 
that would require his undivided energies, and yield him ample 
support. 

Mr. Kendrick was by no means disposed to be courting 
attention from vacant pastorates, and his mind turned with 
great reluctance to changes save as they were warranted by 
the unequivocal dictates of divine providence. About two 
years after his settlement with the church in Middlebury, he 
was invited to return to Lansingburgh. A few lines in the 
letter, sent in reply to the call, evince the abiding love which 
he cherished for the people whom he had once served as pastor, 
and the conscientious disposal which he made of their request. 
After stating that he had held the matter under serious advise- 
ment, he writes as follows : 



88 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

" The most of the time since I saw you, my mind has been 
in a state of suspense, and two or three times I was on the 
point of compliance with your request ; but not being fully 
satisfied that the mind of God was in it, I delayed my answer 
for a clearer discovery of duty ; and now I am prevailingly 
convinced that it is the will of the Great Head of the church, 
that I should continue here for the present." 

In the early part of the summer of 1816, the church in San- 
gerfield, N. Y., opened a correspondence with Mr. Kendrick, 
for the purpose of obtaining a visit from him, with a view to 
settlement. His name was suggested to them by brethren 
Galusha, Warren, and Hascall. The field was represented as 
one of large promise, and then in pressing need of an able and 
efficient minister. Mr. Galusha, at that time pastor of the 
Baptist church in Whiteboro, had been upon the ground, and 
spent one Lord's Day in the place. The assemblies were large, 
and the attention to the word fixed and solemn. From a per- 
sonal inspection of the field, he took occasion to write to Mr. 
Kendrick, urging upon him the importance of considering its 
claims, and expressing his conviction, that in a call so very 
urgent it must be his indispensable duty to visit Sangerfield. 
In addition to the bright prospects of this interest for one 
given to the ministry, there was the preceptorship in the 
academy to be filled, to which the committee of invitation also 
directed Mr. Kendrick's mind. In referring to the last sug- 
gestion, Mr. K. has this remark, " I must not omit to inform 
you, that my knowledge of the classics, and especially of the 
dead languages, is inadequate to the duties of a preceptor of 
an academ}^." 

The following letter, in reply to the brethren in Sanger- 
field, will explain the situation in which he was placed, by 
the urgency of brethren at home and abroad. 

" Middlebury, August 1, 1816. 

" The Baptist Church of Christ in Sangerfield : 

" Dearly Beloved : — A few days' absence prevented my 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 89 

receiving yours of the 15th until Saturday last. I laid it 
before my church and society on the Sabbath, together with 
letters received from Elders Warren and Galusha on the same 
subject. Your first letter had been previously laid before the 
church, which was received at the time I was starting for 
Albany, and accompanied with a request that I might pro- 
ceed from that place to Sangerfield, and make you a visit. 
Their unwilliDgness to have me absent any length of time, 
dictated my return as soon as I had accomplished the partic- 
ular object of my journey. 

11 Their result, which was forwarded to me, when received 
in connection with my engagement to them, left me no room 
to doubt concerning the path of my duty. Until your last 
was communicated to them, my brethren indulged the hope 
that the Great Head of the church was making other pro- 
vision for you, and that he would not favor my removal from 
this part of his vineyard. Although they have not at com- 
mand the competent means of my support, yet they are un- 
willing to be destitute. On the subject of my paying you a 
visit, however, their decision is not precisely the same as 
at first. But, for reasons you will be delighted to hear, they 
think it my absolute duty to delay my visit till September. 
About a fortnight since it pleased God to pour out his Spirit 
on the people to whom I preach one-third of the time, in 
New Haven. I met a large assembly there last Tuesday, 
when seven had obtained hope, and a large number appeared 
anxious. This is in the remote part of a Congregational 
society, where the minister of the town preached once a 
month. At the meeting above named four Congregational 
ministers were present. The Divine Spirit is also hovering 
down upon this place. There have been several hopeful 
instances of conversion among the inhabitants and students 
in college. But whether the borders of the Baptists will be 
enlarged by this, remains for the event to inform us. We 
can say, however, God has lately given us two respectable 
members from the Congregational church, who were baptized 

8* 



90 EEV. NATHANIEL KEN D KICK, D. D. 

Sabbath before last. There appear to be some others almost 
persuaded to take sides with their convictions, and adopt our 
mode, which they acknowledge appears to them the more 
scriptural. The present has become a season of much im- 
portance to us, and it may please our Divine Master to afford 
me some of the joys of the reaper, in a place where I have 
thought I have labored in vain. One thing I have desired 
of the Lord, that I may in future give myself wholly to the 
work. Whether he is about to make this provision for me 
here, or is about to order me to another place, I am at pres- 
ent uninformed. I make it a subject of prayer that I may 
do His will. 

" If I have not misjudged, I think I have the present dic- 
tates of his spiritual providence, in making this calculation, 
to continue here till the first Sabbath in September, and then, 
if God will, I shall come to you, with permission from my 
brethren to be absent from them three Sabbaths. If our 
common Lord should otherwise provide for you, in the mean 
time, you will not fail to give me notice. 

" I cannot, dear brethren, conceal from you one serious 
embarrassment you have imposed upon me against coming 
to you, that is, the too favorable opinion you have formed 
concerning me, which I am confident you can never realize. 
You will therefore be prepared to compassionate my case, 
and help me with your prayers, that God will keep me from 
a proud ambition to attain to the extent of your expectations, 
which are no doubt beyond my measure. You will grant me 
your effectual and fervent prayer, that no selfish nor sinister 
motive may bias my heart from the rugged path of duty, nor 
induce me to dictate to my Master what part of his vineyard 
shall be assigned to me. 

" The more our own interest is swallowed up in the com- 
mon cause, the more we shall find it promoted. You will 
daily lay your case before the Great Head of the Church, who 
has granted his Spirit to build up his cause among you, and I 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 91 

trust will not fail to accompany it with such means as will 
best accomplish his own. purposes. 

" You will accept assurances of my affectionate regards ; 
and permit me to subscribe, your unworthy brother in the 
best of bonds, 

11 NATH. KENDRICK. 

" To the Trustees of the Bap. Ch. of Christ in Sangerfield." 

The contemplated visit was made at the time designated, 
and although there were strong probabilities that it would 
result in his settlement, yet it was otherwise ordered. Rev. 
Joel W. Clark was with the church on the same Lord's Day 
that Mr. Kendrick was first present, and the labors were di- 
vided between them. The decision of the church was to 
retain Mr. Clark upon trial, which resulted in his settlement 
as pastor. This journey seems, however, to have been a 
necessary step in divine providence to bring about his re- 
moval to this state, and to a field in close proximity to the 
school with which he was so long identified. Upon this tour 
he attended the anniversary of the Madison Association, held 
in Cazenovia, and preached by appointment upon the second 
day of the session. This afforded Mr. Kendrick an oppor- 
tunity to make the acquaintance of a large number of breth- 
ren. The Association was then numerous, having upon its 
list forty-three churches, and an aggregate membership of 
over three thousand four hundred. Upon his return to Ver- 
mont, he continued his labors as before, and at the expiration 
of his term renewed his engagement for another year. 

During the autumn and winter, however, of 1816, Mr. 
Kendrick continued to receive numerous, pressing solicita- 
tions to visit unoccupied fields of labors. Among them, we 
mention the following : Schuyler, Cazenovia, Albany, and 
the First and Second Baptist Churches of Eaton, K Y. The 
correspondence with the churches in these several places was 
in some instances of so very urgent a character, as to render 
either a refusal or compliance with their wishes, not a little 



92 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

embarrassing. Through the Rev. Daniel Hascall, with 
whom in after years he was long both pleasantly and 
profitably associated, his attention was called to two or three 
vacancies in the northern counties of New York, where the 
people were very desirous of procuring the labors of one or 
two able and efficient ministers of the Baptist order. He 
also urged upon his notice the vacancies in Eaton. Early in 
January of 1817, a correspondence was opened on the part of 
the two Baptist churches in this town. Having recently 
renewed his engagement with the church in Middlebury for 
a year, he did not feel at liberty to offer any encouragement, 
even to make them a visit. In reply, however, he was 
sufficiently frank and explicit to let the people know his real 
situation. The letter is so characteristic of the man, that we 
give place to a portion of it. 

" Although but little more than half my support is derived 
from my people, and for the rest I must depend upon my own 
exertions, yet I hope no hardships will induce me to leave 
this destitute part of the vineyard, without the permission of 
my Divine Master. After I received Elder Warren's letter 
laying before me your peculiar circumstances, I should have 
presented it to my brethren and requested them to release 
me, had I not been afraid that a selfish motive would have 
dictated the act, I doubt not but they would release me if I 
should ask it, but I am not yet persuaded that the Great 
Head of the Church would approve it. 

" I presume, my brethren, as God has given you the ability 
and the disposition to support the administration of the 
gospel among you, that he will send you a pastor after his 
own heart. That he will do so, I trust you will not pray in 
vain. 

"You will permit me to reciprocate your expressions of 
love and good will, wishing for yourselves and the churches 
in whose behalf you have written mercy and peace from God 
our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. " 

The request, however, was renewed by the Churches of 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. P, 93 

Eaton both to Mr. Kendrick and to the church at Middle- 
bury, and he consented to visit them, which he did in the 
following April, spending a few weeks, and receiving a call 
to preach in the two churches upon alternating Lord's Days. 
Before he gave an answer to their request, he laid the matter 
before his church and permitted them full opportunity to ad- 
vise with him. The record of that scene is thus given. 
" They met yesterday for a decision, knowing the inability of 
the brethren, some of the sisters came and promised the 
widow's mite, the influence and the worth of such offerings 
are above gold. All, however, were disposed to be candid. 
They considered their circumstances, and they considered 
mine ; and then above all the common cause of our Divine 
Master. They appeared to discover the hand of Providence, 
pointing to a decision, in view of which we could but weep ; 
for it denoted a separation. They at length said they were 
unable to provide for me, and they would relinquish their 
claim and leave the decision wholly with myself. 

" This I regard as one of the most trying occurrences of 
my life ; but I must decide, and under present conviction of 
duty, my decision cannot be different from what my brethren 
have already expected. I have concluded to comply with 
your request, and labor as God shall enable me in your part 
of the vineyard for the year to come." 

The relations of this pastorate which embraced over six 
years, were such as to awaken the tenderest sympathies at 
its close. The labors had been manifold and arduous, and 
such as to demand great self-denial. But we find not the 
slightest intimation of complaint ; rather frequent records 
indicative of sincere gratitude to God. The eyes of Mr. 
Kendrick were opened to behold the goodness of God on 
every hand. If he was visited with sickness in his family, 
he pens in his diary this witness of his resignation to the 
Divine mind : " Will God be pleased to mete out all our 
changes in mercy and grant us a holy contentment with his 
will." 



9± KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

In the midst of his multiplied and oppressive labors, his 
kindred are not forgotten ; and he takes special pains to visit 
his parents with frequency, though journeys were then slow 
and toilsome compared with the present modes of travel. 

The closing year of Mr. Kendrick's labors in Middlebury 
was attended with a precious revival of religion. A notice of 
this work of grace, contained in a letter to the Rev. Luther 
Rice, conveys to us a better idea of it, than can be derived 
from any other source : 

" It has pleased God by a direct and gracious influence to 
give to this as well as to most other parts of his vineyard, a 
more pleasing aspect, than we have ever before witnessed. 
We have been favored with a season of refreshing in this 
town, which commenced early in the summer. It has been 
more or less general in most of the towns in this part of the 
state. New Haven, Ferrisburg, Charlotte, Panton, Addison, 
and many other towns on the North have been highly favored. 
In Cornwall, Brandon, Hubbardton, Castleton, Poultney, 
Fair Haven, and through the County of Washington in the 
adjoining part of New York, the work has been almost with- 
out a parallel. The Lord truly appears in his glory when he 
builds up Zion. May the time shortly come when all nations 
shall know and fear him." 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 95 



CHAPTER X. 

Entrance upon a New Field — Prospects of Usefulness — Morrisville 
Church the Mother of Missionaries — Labors at length confined to 
Eaton Church — Theological Lectures — Revival in Eaton — Letter 
of Rev. S. B. Page — Second Marriage — Reunion of his Family. 

According to the intimation given in the last chapter, we 
must now follow the subject of our narrative to a new field 
of labor, and to another state. We observed that his labors 
closed in Middlebury while a revival was in progress ; it was 
a time of interest, also, in the section whither he removed. 

The churches in Eaton, which he now engaged to serve in 
the gospel, had an aggregate membership of about two hun- 
dred. The places of stated worship were four miles asunder. 
The Eirst Church was located at Morris Flats, known latterly 
as Morrisville, and the seat of justice for Madison County. 
This was on the Cherry Valley Turnpike, once a great cen- 
tral thoroughfare. The church was constituted in 1809, and 
at the time when Mr. Kendrick commenced his labors in the 
town, had seventy enrolled members and a house of worship. 

The Second Baptist Church of Eaton, was situated four 
miles south of Morrisville, on the Hamilton and Skeneatelas 
Turnpike. This church had been organized but a little more 
than a year. It consisted originally of seventeen members, 
of which eight were men. Its prosperity for the first year 
and a half of its existence was very great. It was increased 
in that time by an accession of one hundred and twenty-two, 
of which accession one hundred members were by baptism. 
This year of its enlargement was also the year of its union 
with the Madison Association. It had then no house of wor- 
ship. The two churches shared equally in the support of the 
newly-elected pastor, each raising the sum of one hundred 
and fifty dollars. 



96 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.J). 

His prospects for usefulness were here more promising 
than at any post which he had previously occupied. The 
churches were planted in a rich and flourishing country, and 
the population was made up of industrious and enterprizing 
people. Besides, the field was spacious, and now, for the 
first time in a ministry of some fifteen years, Mr. Kendrick 
was permitted to give his undivided attention to the preach- 
ing of the word. Added to the features just mentioned, it 
was a region early settled by Baptists, who constituted the 
prevailing denomination in this and adjacent sections. The 
old Hamilton Church, the honored mother in Israel, formed a 
radiating centre for a wide sweep of territory, and the Madi- 
son Association, it will be borne in mind, was the third formed 
west of the Hudson River. This field, so favorable to the 
distinctive principles of our denomination, was selected by a 
far-seeing and gracious Providence, as that in which this ser- 
vant of Christ was to pursue the remainder of his eminently 
useful career. 

On the third Lord's Day in July, 181*7, the man whom we 
have followed from the hills of New England, where stern 
trials proved him, and heavy afflictions chastened him, meekly 
begins his pulpit duties in the church in Morrisville. He 
must alternate by spending one Lord's Day in the above- 
named village, and the following in Eaton. His residence is 
fixed in the latter place, and his membership cast in with the 
brethren of that church ; and it may be mentioned as a fact 
having more significance then in an infant church and in an 
infant cause than now, that a record stands thus, " fixed one 
fortnight from this, to have a contribution for foreign mis- 
sionary purposes." We could wish that the channels of be- 
nevolence were opened upon the very threshold of all pastoral 
labors, and it would unquestionably contribute not only to 
render efficient aid in the fulfillment of the prophet's vision of 
the holy waters, but to inaugurate a peaceful, prosperous, and 
happy pastorate. 

After about two years of labor distributed in the manner 



REV. NATHANIEL KEN D RICK, D. D. 97 

above mentioned, Mr. Kendrick was requested to serve the 
church at Morrisville the whole time. To this measure he 
did not accede, but renewed his engagements for one-half of 
the time. This continued until January, 1820, when he soli- 
cited a temporary release, that he might undertake an agency 
for the institution at Hamilton. In this half of his field, the 
Rev. Obed. Warren succeeded him about that time. 

In the results of his ministry with this church, we have no 
large accessions to mention. The additions were only gra- 
dual, both by baptism and by letter ; no general revival accom- 
panying his labors here. It was a field, however, that pro- 
duced well in after times, and the church has been the privi- 
leged mother of missionaries to the heathen world. We need 
only remind our readers that our highly-esteemed brother, Dr. 
Dean, of the China mission, came from this church. Here 
he was brought to experience the Saviour's love. It was 
here, also, that the first Mrs. Dean was made a subject of re- 
deeming grace ; and the last wife, also, of Dr. Judson, claimed 
here the home of her childhood, and her spiritual birth. Here 
it was that these eminent servants of the church made their 
espousals to the Lord in their early youth. Were there no 
other products than these, it were a harvest-field that has 
yielded its rich increase to the praise of divine grace. 

Mr. Kendrick continued to minister to the church in Eaton 
for one-half of the time until April 18th, 1823, when he was 
requested to serve the church for the whole time. Previously 
to this period, for some two years, the pulpit when not occu- 
pied by Mr. Kendrick, had been supplied by students from 
the seminary. He acceded to the request of the church. 
The assumption of the pastorate for the whole time, had been 
preceded by another and very responsible engagement. He 
had, for a considerable time, delivered theological lectures in 
the Hamilton Institution, and was now appointed as a perma- 
nent professor in that school. It was about this time that 
the church, with a spirit of self-sacrifice, took into considera- 
tion the propriety of Mr. Kendrick's change of residence to 

9 



98 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

the village of Hamilton, generously consenting to the mea- 
sure, and submitting the whole matter to his own judgment. 
He effected this removal in the year 1824. His life and 
labors became now identified with the cause of ministerial 
education, and the nurture and prosperity of the institution 
that was a chosen instrumentality in the hand of divine pro- 
vidence to advance this noble cause. 

It is necessary to notice a little further the results of this 
pastorate, which was extended over sixteen years from the 
commencement to the close, in six of which he was with the 
church every other Lord's Day, or only one-half of the time. 
It will doubtless give but an imperfect idea of the beneficial 
results of his ministry, to say that the list of members added 
was one hundred and fifty, of whom one hundred and eleven 
were by baptism. There are many things that deserve enu- 
meration, and which can be known only in their full extent, 
when the aggregate of influences shall be finally estimated. 
In this period six or seven licentiates were sent out by the 
church, to publish the gospel publicly. 

The season of the greatest religious interest occurred in 
the summer of 1831. This work of grace is quite minutely 
described by Dr. Kendrick's own pen. The narrative was 
originally furnished for the New York Baptist Register, and 
we here insert as there published : — 

" Mr. Editor : — A brief account of the late revival of reli- 
gion in this place, may afford some pleasure to the readers of 
the Regist er. During the winter and spring there were favo- 
rable appearances, both in the church and society, which en- 
couraged individuals to hope that God was about to revive 
his work. Sabbath and weekly conferences were held, and 
though often thinly attended, yet the Divine Presence was so 
frequently realized as to encourage Christians to hope that 
the time of his merciful visitation was near at hand. A few 
instances of seriousness occurred during this period, yet ac- 
companied with such efforts at concealment, that little was 
known of them at the time. On hearing of protracted meet- 



D.D. 99 

ings in neighboring churches, which were attended with re- 
markable out-pourings of the Divine Spirit, much was said 
and felt by individuals both in church and society, on the 
subject of having such a meeting in this place. It was 
thought by some that there were things to be set in order in 
the church, before they would be fully prepared for it, and it 
was put off a few weeks for that purpose. 

" Without accomplishing all that was desired, the question 
for such a meeting was taken up on the last Sabbath in June, 
to be decided whether it should be held that week, or delayed 
until the hurrying season of the year should be over. On 
this question, there were different opinions, and some thought 
that such a meeting might have too much human manage- 
ment in it, to be profitable at any time. It was at length 
concluded to make the experiment, and give out an appoint- 
ment for a meeting to commence on Thursday following, at 
nine o'clock in the morning, to continue one day, and longer if 
at the close of the day it should be thought expedient. The 
appointment was accordingly made, and the attendance of 
several ministering brethren requested. 

" The meeting commenced on Thursday morning, the last 
day of June. It was opened by prayer, and an address to 
the church on the subject of removing every obstacle which 
might be in the way of God's pouring us out a blessing. Se- 
veral spoke in the language of penitence, expressing a great 
sense of their wanderings from G-od, and a desire to return 
unto him with full purpose of heart. Prof. Baruas Sears, 
then addressed the assembly in a sermon, which was followed 
by some remarks, and a season of prayer, which closed the 
exercises of the forenoon, leaving a solemn impression upon 
the people generally. The meeting was conducted in the 
same manner in the afternoon, when more of the church 
came forward, with brokenness of spirit confessing their sins, 
and were afterwards addressed in a sermon by Elder Smit- 
zer. The order and solemnity which pervaded the assembly, 
and the deep-toned feelings of those who spoke, were evident 



100 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

indications of the divine presence, and at the close of the 
afternoon exercises, the people expressed a wish to have the 
meeting continued another day, which was accordingly agreed 
upon. The people met again in the evening ; and a number 
came together at five o'clock the next morning for a prayer- 
meeting. At the commencement of the forenoon exercises 
of the second day, further acknowledgments were made by 
numbers of the church who were not present the first day, or 
who had not spoken. After a general expression of peni- 
tence and of supplication was made by the church, it was 
then proposed to any who felt a desire for the prayers of 
Christians, to manifest it, and immediately three or four came 
forward and took seats in front of the assembly. After a sea- 
son of prayer, Bro. Lewis Leonard addressed the people in a 
sermon, at the close of which a number more requested 
prayers. 

" The meeting was conducted in the same manner in the 
afternoon, when the number of the anxious was increased to 
about twenty. With little variation in the order of exer- 
cises, and with increasing interest, the meeting was protrac- 
ted from day to day, by the special request of the assembly, 
manifested at the close of each day, and in accordance with 
the evident indications of the Divine Spirit, until Thursday 
night of the following week, making eight days in all. 

" The number of anxious was daily multiplying, until it 
amounted to about one hundred and fifty, who came forward 
and expressed desires for prayers, and previous to the close 
of the meeting about sixty of the number manifested hope in 
the Saviour. 

" Much assistance was afforded from the professors and 
theological students at Hamilton, and from a number of 
neighboring ministers, and especially, from Elder Smitzer, 
who was present the whole time. 

" The whole assembly was profoundly silent and solemn, 
and appeared overawed with a sense of the presence and 
power of God. It was evident that the Holy Spirit imparted 



KEV. NATHANIEL KEN 3D KICK, D. D. 101 

an unusual measure of light and truth, and fervor of feeling, 
to those who addressed the assembly in exhortations and 
preaching, and especially while leading the devotions of the 
humble supplicants to the mercy seat. 

The word of God fell with weight from the lips of his 
servants upon the consciences of both saints and sinners, and 
the realities of eternity, and the light and power of the gos- 
pel, were brought to bear upon the understandings and hearts 
of the people in a remarkable manner. The scene was too 
awful to be tumultuous. In no case was more than one heard 
to speak at a time. Every speaker was listened to by the 
whole assembly with the most profound attention. Although 
many were in great anguish of spirit on account of their sins, 
and the wrath of God which they had incurred, yet their 
sighs and their groans were scarcely heard. 

" Previous to the commencement of the meeting, and for 
some little time after, unfavorable opinions were frequently 
expressed by numbers in the community, of the propriety 
and tendency of such a meeting. But on witnessing its 
practical results, and the divine blessing which was poured 
upon it, the good sense of the people approved it, and very 
few were left to doubt of its importance to the best interests 
of man. 

" Very rarely have such a number of souls 'been delivered 
from the power of darkness, and translated into the kingdom 
of God's dear Son,' with less apparent opposition than ap- 
peared during the meeting. 

"It is due to the youth from this and the neighboring 
towns, who held a ball in the village, on the fifth day and 
evening of our meeting, but a few rods from the place where 
we were assembled, to say, that no reference, in getting up 
this ball, was had to a religious meeting, but to celebrate this 
day of our national independence in a way most enchanting 
to giddy and graceless youth, who are senseless of the source 
of all our mercies, and regardless of the divine abhorrence 
in which such celebrations are held. The ball was appointed 

9* 



102 REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

before the meeting was agreed upon ; and when the meeting 
was commenced, there was no expectation of having it con- 
tinued over three days at most, A number concerned in 
the ball would have gladly given it up in favor of the reli- 
gious meeting, if they had not considered themselves pledged 
to others. When the celebration was ended, they resorted 
to the house of God, and some have since obtained mercy. 

" The propriety of assigning seats to the anxious, and 
inviting them to express their desires for the prayers of 
Christians by the act of taking them, was a subject of much 
conversation for a time, and even some of the anxious them- 
selves had strong objections to resorting to this measure, as 
though it was something out of the ordinary course of 
means, if not altogether useless. How far the measure was 
misunderstood by any, or regarded in a light foreign to what 
was intended, I know not. It must be admitted by all who 
regard the scriptures as their guide, that God has appointed 
prayer as an important means for the salvation of the sinner. 
The saints are instructed to pray, and not to faint — to pray 
without ceasing — to pray with all prayer and supplication 
for all men — to pray for the peace of Jerusalem — to pray 
one for another — and to pray for the Spirit. And God has 
not said to the seed of Jacob, seek ye my face, in vain. 
The Saviour said to his disciples, ' All things whatsoever ye 
shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.' 'And what- 
soever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the 
Father may be glorified in the Son.' 

"A full explanation was given on the occasion, showing 
that nothing more was intended by the measure, than to 
obtain an expression from those in distress that they desired 
the prayers of the saints, as a means for their salvation. By 
this they were directed not to look to the seats nor the 
saints for salvation, but to him alone who has the words of 
eternal life, and has power to change and subdue the heart 
and the will, and cleanse them from all iniquity. 

" I have never been more sensible of the impotency of 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.Br. 103 

human efforts, and the entire dependence of sinners on the 
life-giving energies of the Holy Spirit, than when beholding 
this work of salvation. It might truly be said, ' Neither is 
he that planteth, anything, neither he that watereth, but God, 
who giveth the increase.' 

"It seemed hardly reconcilable to the ordinary ways of 
providence, in carrying forward the work of revivals, that 
sinners should hope so soon after their first awakening. 
This excited strong suspicions that the conversions of many 
who were awakened, and indulged hopes, during the meet- 
ing, were spurious. Those suspicions, we are happy to say, 
have been greatly weakened in very many instances, as far 
as we have been able to test these conversions by the word 
of God. Believing it to be the same gospel, carried home 
to the hearts of sinners by the same Spirit, which produced 
the conversion of three thousand souls, on the day of Pente- 
cost, we have no ground to say that sinners cannot be con- 
victed and converted on the same day, although we have 
not been accustomed to see the work accomplished in so 
short a time." 

The writer has been favored with a brief communication 
pertaining to the pastor, from the Rev. S. B. Page, who 
was present in these revival meetings of the Eaton Church 
at that time. 

" It was my privilege to attend this meeting, and to see 
Dr. Kendrick in a new position. I have often heard him 
preach and pray, and seen him examine classes in theology, 
and have venerated him as a man of great talent and piety, 
but with many others at this time, supposed that his strong, 
high-toned views in certain doctrines of theology, would be 
somewhat in his way in exhorting sinners to flee from the 
wrath to come. I thought he could not be practical and 
direct in his appeals to the unconverted. I did not under- 
stand before how Calvinism, so called, and so often misun- 
derstood, could be so practical. I was then led to see that 
all Bible theology becomes practical and effective, where the 



104 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

Spirit of God is making men in earnest about the salvation 
of their own souls, or the conversion of the souls of others. 

" No man at this meeting was more earnest and direct in 
addressing the unconverted than Dr. Kendrick, the pastor of 
the church. His noble form and kind face, expressive of 
sympathy and love, are before me now, and I can hear his 
very tone of voice, as he stood on the floor in front of the 
pulpit day after day, pleading with penitent sinners to come 
to Christ, and often kneeling and pleading most earnestly in 
their behalf before the throne of grace. I could see but 
little difference in his spirit and manner, from that of other 
earnest workers at this time in the spiritual harvest field, 
unless in the greater depth and permanence of his interest. 
The work went on from day to day, as we have seldom seen 
a work progress, even in 1858, the memorable year of re- 
vivals." 

After Mr. Kendrickhad labored about a year with the churches 
in this State, he was married to Miss Cordelia C. Covell, of 
Charlotte, Yt., daughter of the Rev. Lemuel Covell, to whom 
allusion has already been made in this memoir, and sister to 
the late Rev. Alanson L. Covell, who was removed a few years 
since in Albany ; dying in the midst of his usefulness, and 
deeply lamented by all who knew his worth. 

The relations of Mr. Kendrick to this family, were of a 
deeply interesting and affecting character. For many years 
he had known the family intimately, and about twelve years 
prior to his connection with it by marriage, was called under 
painful circumstances to sympathize with them in the loss of 
the revered head. The Rev. Lemuel Covell died while on one 
of his missionary tours in Canada. Mr. Kendrick and Mr. 
Webb, of Troy, were deputed to convey the sad tidings to the 
bereaved widow, a task which they were constrained to de- 
volve upon an aged friend of the family, Dea Rouse, of Pitts- 
town. Mr. Kendrick, however, made the journey from Lan- 
singburgh, where he then resided, to Cheshire, a distance of 
forty-three miles, to alleviate, if possible, this sore bereave- 



KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 105 

ment. The intelligence of . the sudden death of one so widely 
known, and universally beloved, as was Mr. Covell, caused 
the house of mourning to be thronged for days together, by 
sympathizing friends. At the importunity of the people, Mr. 
Kendrick preached at the widow's house, which was literally 
a Bochim, selecting those timely words, " Trust in the Lord 
at all times, ye people, praise ye the Lord." 

Addressing a weeping company, under scenes so moving 
and tender, the occasion was one not often, if ever, repeated 
in a lifetime of three score years and ten. Mr. Kendrick inci- 
dentally noted in his journal that "he had some freedom," 
(which always implied all that he expressed), and that " he 
never saw a more afflicted family than this, and more sensibly 
mourn with submission to God. " 

Reminiscences of this character, were well calculated to 
open the way to the warmest welcomes in after years. The 
antecedents of domestic affliction, running back to this period, 
conspired to enhance the happiness of the conjugal union 
formed on the 18th June, 1818. The past was a presage of 
true sympathy and affection in the future. At his own do- 
mestic altar his little ones, whom death had spared, were again 
collected, and his hearth-stone once more made cheerful by the 
presence of a partner formed to his tastes, and the apartments 
of home again echoed the footfalls of little feet, and the blithe 
voices of children. 

The home which death has once desolated by removing its 
light, and the husband's desire, becomes a retreat and refuge 
to the head that is doubly prized, when its altar fires are 
kindled anew, and its silence broken by the voice of wedded 
love. 

Xone were better adapted than Mr. Kendrick to appreciate 
and enjoy the sweets of such a change. The tenderness of 
his domestic affections was in full proportion to the vigor and 
breadth of his intellect, and rendered him eminently suscepti- 
ble to the sacred pleasures of domestic life. The afflictions 
which he had passed through had also enriched his Christian 



106 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

experience, and deepened the tone of his character, and thus 
his usefulness to the living was increased by his visits to the 
sanctuary of the dead. 

From this second marriage two sons were born, in Eaton, 
and one daughter, the youngest child, born in Hamilton. 

The eldest son of this marriage discovered predilections for 
a sea-faring life, much to the distaste and disquietude of the 
father Only an occasional letter, after long intervals, apprized 
the family of his journeys upon the deep, until a silence of 
long years had left the relatives to infer that he had ended the 
voyage of his earthly life. 

The second son, a young man of decided ability, died Jan- 
uary 15th, 1841, while a member of the junior class in Hamil- 
ton College. 

The daughter was a person of strong intellectual powers, 
possessing qualities of heart that much resembled those of 
her endeared father. After receiving a good education, she 
became the wife of the late Rev. Linus M. Peck. Some two 
years after the decease of her husband, she was united in 
marriage with the author of these pages, and thence forward 
to her departure, displayed in her active and wide sphere of 
labor, the crowning excellencies of a gifted Christian woman. 
She died October Tth, 1852, in Cleveland, Ohio, lamented by 
all who knew her, and embalmed in the memory of hundreds 
as a pastor's wife. 

We shall, in subsequent chapters, follow the subject of this 
memoir into another sphere of active service, the duties of 
which he discharged with eminent ability and faithfulness, and 
for which he was evidently raised up in the providence of 
God. 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICK. D.D. 107 



CHAPTER XL 

Ministerial Education — Colleges — Bounty of Thos. Hollis, Jr. — Supply 
of Ministers — Action of Philadelphia Association — In the South — 
Union in support of Brown University — Interruption from the 
American Revolution — Plan of aid to Beneficiaries in the South — In 
the North — A New Era — Education Societies — Origin of New York 
Baptist Educational Society — Religious Intelligence — A Weekly Sheet 
— The First Fruits of Education Societies. 



To render justice to the period of Mr. Kendrick's life upon 
which we now enter, we must give a slight outline of what 
had hitherto been done for the cause of ministerial education, 
within the bounds of the United States. 

It should be borne in mind that when the oldest collegiate 
institutions were founded in this land they were under the 
patronage and control of other denominations. Our numbers 
were few, our resources were scanty, and our influence 
inconsiderable. When, in 1700, Yale College was founded, 
which was from the beginning designed to rear up candidates 
for the ministry, the Baptist churches in the entire country 
did not exceed fourteen in number. A school for this special 
purpose was not established till a little more than half a 
century later. Individual effort, however, was enlisted much 
earlier in this cause. By the liberality of Thomas Hollis, Jr., 
a merchant of London, provision was made for the education 
of ministers in Harvard University, a portion of whom might 
be Baptists. " The bounty of Hollis, after it began to flow, 
— which was during the presidency of Everett — was like a 
perennial stream." As President Quincy remarks, '''scarcely 
a ship sailed from London, during the last ten years of his 
life, without bearing some evidence of his affection and 
liberality." This embraced the time from 1720-1730. The 
particular objects of his bounty were, first, the library, to the 



108 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

enlargement of which he devoted much time and care, as well 
as money ; secondly, the maintenance and education of pious 
young men for the ministry, who are poor in this world ; and 
thirdly, the endowment of professorships. He endowed a 
Professorship of Divinity in 1721, and a Professorship of 
Mathematics and Natural and Experimental Philosophy in 
1726." 

He devoted £80 per annum to each of the professors, and 
£10 each per annum to ten indigent students, of reputable 
character, designed for the ministry, as an aid to defray the 
charges of their education, besides £20 per annum to the 
college treasurer, as a compensation for his services in man- 
aging the donations which he sent to him. 

Hitherto the churches in those infant settlements had 
looked for their supply of ministers across the Atlantic. The 
conviction had now become established that they must pro- 
vide the supply at home. Nearly simultaneously with the 
generous bounties of Mr. Hollis, we find the churches acting 
upon the policy which his munificent donation suggested. 

The Philadelphia Association, the oldest in the United 
States, by about half a century, and the first in this, as in 
other good causes, recommended to the churches to seek out 
young men endowed with talents, giving promise of useful- 
ness adapted to the ministry, and inclined to learning, for the 
purpose of having them duly commended to Harvard. The 
leading spirit in this enterprise was Abel Morgan, one of the 
most worthy and noted ministers of his time. 

There was nothing like denominational action beyond this 
for thirty-four years later. In 1756 the Philadelphia Asso- 
ciation resolved to establish a school and sustain it for the 
education of candidates for the ministry. This first " school 
of the prophets," under Baptist auspices in America, was 
commenced at Hopewell, New Jersey. The resident pastor, 
Rev. Isaac Eaton, was appointed a theological professor. 
This was continued in successful operation for some ten or 
twelve years, and was then merged in the Rhode Island 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 109 

College, founded in the year 1764, and chartered in the year 
following. 

Some names that adorn the history of our denomination 
received the rudiments of their education here, among which 
stand conspicuous those of James Manning, D.D., Samuel 
Jones, D.D., Hezekiah Smith, D.D., Isaac Stillman, D.D. 

The effort in the middle states to achieve something for 
the cause of ministerial education was followed by a like 
movement in the southern states. The Charleston, South 
Carolina, Association, the oldest in the south, and the second 
in age in America, entered upon measures to promote this 
work in 1151, six years after its origin. 

It was proposed to raise a fund for this purpose. The 
plan was acted upon, and among those to share its provision 
were Evan Pugh, Samuel Stillman, and Edmund Botsford. 
The first effort had been in the centre of our occupied field, 
and the second in the south. It remained now for the 
extremes to unite with the intermediate district in establishing 
a common institution of a high literary grade — an institution 
which has now for nearly a century been making its annual 
contributions to the learned professions, and recruiting largely 
the ranks of the ministry. 

The Philadelphia Association, the Charleston, S. C, and 
the Warren Association, each recommended, both to their 
own churches, and to every church on the continent, to take 
an annual collection in favor of the college. Thus it was 
regarded as the legitimate offspring of the denomination. 
No more congenial soil could have been selected than the 
little state of Rhode Island. Small in area, but great in deeds, 
she fills a large space on the page of history, and has estab- 
lished an empire of intellectual and moral freedom as limitless 
as the ocean that laves her coast. 

Lesser hindrances would of course occasionally arise, 
springing from inadequate views of the cause to which the in- 
stitution was devoted. But these were lost in that great event 
which convulsed the entire country, and for six years sus- 

10 



110 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDBICK, D, D. 

pended wholly the operations of the college — we mean the 
American Revolution. This struggle, however necessary 
to the advancement of our civil liberties, operated with the 
disastrous influences inseparable from war, upon the interests 
alike of learning and religion. 

Nor had the founders of this seminary made provision for 
the support of such as were unable to educate themselves. 
The brethren of the south were moving upon this subject as 
early as 1189. The plan devised, was the creation of a per- 
manent fund to assist candidates while prosecuting their 
studies preparatory to the work of the ministry. The mod- 
erate manner in which this was done, is told by the fact, that 
in the lapse of twenty years, thirteen candidates were aided, 
at a cost of three thousand three hundred and ninety-seven 
dollars and seventy cents, while nine thousand three hundred 
and eighty dollars and two cents was raised in all. It is 
cheering to know that those benefactions were not lost ; 
among the names of the persons assisted we find those of 
John M. Roberts, Jesse Mercer, Wm. T. Brantley. 

The Baptists of the north were stimulated by this example 
of their brethren at the south, and entered upon a similar 
work. It began in the Warren Association, and was pro- 
posed by Dr. Stillman. The suggestion proved the germ of 
a society which was styled " The Trustees of the Baptist 
Education Fund," and thus incorporated by the Massachu- 
setts Legislature in 1194. This was continued for about 
thirty years, in due time giving place to later and more 
efficient organizations. The interest only of the fund could 
be expended. Its benefits were shared by twenty-nine can- 
didates for the ministry ; among the first of whom were 
Dr. Jeremiah Chaplin, D. D., George Phippen, and the sub- 
ject of this memoir. 

We reach at length a new era in Christian effort, in this, 
as in other branches of evangelical enterprise. The period 
in which foreign missions began to obtain patronage from 
American shores, was no less a period in which the attention 



RE V. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. Ill 

of the church was turned to the means of securing men for 
the work. The same year that Judson and Price left our 
shores for the East, the Baptist Education Society of the ' 
middle states was formed. Prior to this period, Dr. Staugh- 
ton had received, from time to time, students in divinity into 
his own family. To him the Rev. Dr. Sharp was indebted 
for theological instruction, and was, we believe, the first to 
enjoy his valuable services in this department. 

Dr. Baldwin was another who lent his services to this 
work, and we might add the names of Dr. Stanford and 
Dr. Chaplin. The systematic plan of cooperative action, in 
conferring the means of theological instruction, now begun 
in the middle states, was rendered further effective, by 
making choice of Dr. Wm. Staughton as tutor to divinity 
students, and virtually transforming his own house into a 
theological seminary. Humble and unpretending as this 
might be, it was yet the germ of Columbian College, in the 
District of Columbia. How many were educated prior to 
the establishment of the college in its present locality, we 
have not the means of determining. The scheme was a 
noble one, fraught with blessings to the denomination ; while 
the establishment of such an institution evinced the just 
estimate which its founders placed on intellectual culture, it 
was no less wisely located where it could be most easily 
accessible to the entire denomination under whose auspices 
it was established. A high educational institution at the seat 
of government, coincided with the expressed convictions of 
Washington, that there should be a national university. He 
felt the importance of such a school, and not barely desired, 
but recommended the establishment of one. 

The work inaugurated under the auspices of the so styled, 
Baptist Education Society of the middle states was trans- 
ferred in the year 1820 to the General Convention, and 
continued uoder the control of this body until 1826, when 
the relation was dissolved. 

Measures thus initiated in the central section of our confede- 



112 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

racy, were soon followed with commendable zeal by brethren in 
the New England states. The birth of several societies for 
educational purposes varied only in the following order of 
dates, 1814, 1816, 1816, 181?, 1817. Their names in corres- 
ponding order were as follows : The Massachusetts Baptist 
Education Society ; The American Education Society ; one 
in the Warren Association similar to the Massachusetts 
Education Society ; the New York Baptist Education 
Society ; and The Baptist Society in South Carolina and 
Georgia for the education of pious young men for the 
ministry. 

We are particularly concerned here to notice the origin and 
progress of the New York Baptist Education Society with 
which Hamilton Institution has been identified. This body 
took its rise in the following manner. The Rev. Daniel 
Hascall, upon the perusal of the address of Dr. Chaplin, 
which was delivered at the formation of the Massachusetts 
Baptist Education Society, conceived the whole purpose of 
forming a similar society in the limits of the Empire State. 
The exigencies of the churches seemed to call for such an 
institution. The work of evangelism had begun with the 
dawn of the present century. The oldest association in the 
state, the Otsego, was in vigorous operation, with its thirty- 
five churches, fourteen ministers, and an aggregate member- 
ship of one thousand six hundred and fifty-nine. 

Though no missionary bodies in form existed, yet, in effect, 
missionary work was performed. In 180T, the Lake Baptist 
Missionary Society was formed, changing its name in the 
following year to the Hamilton Baptist Missionary Society. 
This continued its work until it was merged in the Con- 
vention of the State in the year 1825. 

With the expansion of the churches, and the demands of the 
new settlements, there was a growing necessity for ministers 
of Christ. Hitherto, those who had served the churches 
were distinguished for their zeal, their self-sacrifice, their 
unreserved devotion, and their heroic endurance of privations 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 113 

for the cause of Christ, They were self-made men, deserv- 
ing of all praise for what they did ; and it may be truthfully 
said, they abounded in labors. But few, however, had enjoyed 
the advantages of a liberal education. In the whole state 
west of the Hudson river, there were but three ministers in 
the Baptist denomination that were regular graduates of a 
college. 

With the growing intelligence of the people, there was a 
demand for a ministry of enlarged culture. For all that had 
been done, there was reason for congratulation. But then 
the able and judicious councillors, both among the ministry 
and the people, began to feel the want of a well-furnished 
ministry. As there had been a marked development of the 
missionary spirit with reference to foreign and home fields, 
so must there be commensurately with this, enlarged effort to 
provide a ministry equal to the times, adequate in number 
and efficiency to the demands of the denomination. 

There was, moreover, a growing eagerness for religious 
intelligence. Resolutions were passed in the Otsego Asso- 
ciation as early as 1806 and 1807, to encourage the issue of a 
weekly sheet. Some years, however, were suffered to glide 
away before this enterprize was consummated. In 1814, the 
first number of " The Vehicle" was issued under the auspices 
of such brethren as Elders Hascall, Lawton, and Peck. This 
little magazine of forty-eight pages duodecimo, was issued at 
first only thrice a year ; and before the expiration of the first 
year, the Hamilton Missionary Society had accepted the offer of 
publishing the magazine. The following year it was issued 
quarterly, and its name changed to the " Western Baptist 
Magazine." After it had completed four volumes, it was 
merged in the New York Baptist Register. This sheet, under 
the patronage of the Convention for very many years, and 
for more than thirty years under the able and judicious editor- 
ship of A. M. Beebee, LL.D., will long be remembered by 
the present generation. Its early visits when a very small 
sheet are among the childhood recollections of the writer. 

10* 



114 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

The varied forms of Christian enterprize which we have 
been describing were nearly coeval. One seemed to require 
the others. The spirit of home and foreign missions was not 
to advance without the functions of the weekly press. These 
could not be jointly prosecuted to the highest desirable 
results, without ministerial culture. Indeed, permanent pro- 
visions were required to raise up an order of men that would 
always be in advance of their age, and would be able to 
guide the sons of the churches into wide and ever-growing 
fields of Christian labor, and to originate and conduct all the 
great enterprises of good that would naturally accompany 
advancing civilization. Such a corps of men could be secured 
only by enabling those who were called of God, to prosecute 
a course of study beyond the scope of a district school or 
village academy. We have remarked above that the number 
of those in our ranks who knew by experience the benefits of 
a liberal education was very small ; but there were a goodly 
number that had suffered conscious inconveniencies in their 
work, from a lack of systematic and thorough study. These, 
to their praise be it recorded, were among the best supporters 
of a theological school. There were also many who cher- 
ished deep-seated prejudices against learning as an aid to the 
ministry. These prejudices often sprang from the present 
regard for the welfare of Zion. They grew out of the appre- 
hension that learning would be put in the place of piety, and 
that, in dependence upon this alone, men would be encou- 
raged to enter the ministry. The holy motives that environed 
these prejudices, often rendered their removal more difficult. 

It may be adduced as a significant fact, that the first bene- 
ficiaries of three leading educational societies in this country 
were consecrated to missionary work. Coleman and Whee- 
lock, Wade and Kincaid, — the first two aided by the Massa- 
chusetts Baptist Education Society, and the last two by the 
New York Baptist Education Society. The Bev. Samuel 
Moseley, the first beneficiary of the American Education So- 



EEY. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 115 

ciety, was also devoted to the missionary work among the 
Choctaw Indians. 

We have now taken a survey of the cause of ministerial 
education, limited indeed, but sufficient to appreciate the part 
which the subject of the memoir took in the enterprize to 
which a large portion of his remaining life was consecrated, 
and the narrative of whose progress blends itself inseparably 
with the delineation of his life and character. 



116 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 



CHAPTER XII. 

Origin of Hamilton Seminary — Its Founders — Place and Time of Meet- 
ing — First Subscription — Agents — Field — First Student — Consocia- 
tion — Peculiar Character of the School — Amount of Subscriptions the 
First Year— Location at Hamilton. 

The brief survey which we have taken in the last chapter, 
has prepared us to trace the progress of that enterprize with 
which the subject of our memoir stands in more immediate 
relation. This enterprize had its birth under the following 
circumstances. 

To the Rev. Daniel Hascall belongs the honor of having 
" first suggested the idea," out of which originated the move- 
ment in behalf of ministerial education in central New York. 
During the visit of Mr. Kendrick to this state, in the autumn 
of 1816, in which he had the pleasure of attending the anni- 
versary of the Madison Association, he met his early friend 
and fellow-laborer, the Rev. Daniel Hascall. The latter, then 
a member of the above-named association, and pastor of the 
First Baptist Church of Hamilton, had been deeply exercised 
for some time, upon the subject of providing means for secur- 
ing in the rising ministry, an order of men qualified for their 
sacred work. With his mind full of the magnitude of this 
subject, he made a disclosure of his views and feelings to Mr. 
Kendrick. In him he found a ready sympathizer : most cordi- 
ally did he second his opinions, and espouse the cause upon 
which his own personal experience had taught him to set a 
high value. The two men concurring in their judgments, and 
harmonizing in their practical views, mutually fostered an 
enthusiastic interest in their contemplated project, and were, 
of course, ready to co-operate in any feasible plan for realizing 
their noble conception. 



REV. NATHANIEL KEN BRICK, D. D. 117 

The removal of Mr. Kendrick from the State of Vermont 
to the town of Eaton, Madison Co., N. Y., in the following 
year, was a providential step in a series of movements, which 
resulted in the establishment of a "school of the prophets," 
whose influence has since girdled the globe. The proximity 
of these two brethren to each other, as well as the sympathy 
generated in minds endowed alike with rare natural gifts, and 
a rich intellectual and spiritual culture, drew them much into 
each other's society. Their parishes were contiguous to each 
other, and their homes separated only by a hill-range, from 
whose summit both their habitations, and their fields of labor 
were seen at a glance. They were apprized of each other's 
counsels and plans, and to the strengthening of these, their 
long cherished friendship and confidence powerfully contri- 
buted. 

Another striking providence was apparent in the movement 
that gave rise to this enterprise, showing that it was an off- 
spring of the church, born in and of Zion ; we refer to the 
transactions in the Triennial Convention holding its second 
session in May, 1817. At that anniversary it is stated in the 
minutes that the venerable Dr. Furman, of Charleston, S. C, 
"the President, having, with the approbation of the conven- 
tion, called the Rev. Dr. Baldwin to the chair, placed before 
the body, in a speech of considerable length and great inte- 
rest, the very serious and religious importance of a well 
informed ministry." 

While that subject was obtaining such advocacy before that 
dignified body, in the City of Brotherly Love, five or six indi- 
viduals under another meridian in the village of Hamilton, at 
the residence of that godly man Deacon Samuel Payne, located 
at the foot of what is now University Hill, were in conference 
upon the same subject, without the slightest knowledge of 
what their brethren were doing in a distant city. After ma- 
ture deliberation and prayer, these few brethren ventured to 
issue a call, which was published on the cover of the Western 
Baptist Magazine, already referred to, inviting the friends of 



118 REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICE, D.D. 

the cause to meet in Hamilton, on the 24th of September en- 
suing. 

We might naturally suppose that, with an interval of 
nearly four months for the circulation of such a call, the 
second session would embrace in its company a goodly 
number of clerical and lay brethren. Some might hope that, 
aside from the intrinsic merits of the cause, the power of 
curiosity would summon many from their homes, to hear 
what these few brethren issuing the call might have to say 
on the then novel theme of ministerial education. But we 
must not disguise the fact, humiliating though it be, that 
there were then strong prejudices, and widely prevalent, 
against what was termed, in current phraseology, " a man- 
made ministry" — a term designating the ministry that had 
enjoyed the benefit of collegiate institutions. This may 
partially account for the small number that responded to 
the call. 

The day arrives. No spacious hall is demanded for this 
convention. A single apartment in the house of Deacon 
Jonathan Olmsted has full capacity to contain the members. 
The names of all will not encumber our pages, and for his- 
toric interest they deserve a place here, as they have a place 
in the hearts of our brethren in the churches. They are as 
follows : Revs. J. Bostwick, P. P. Roots, Joel W. Clark, 
Amos Kingsley, Daniel Hascall, Nathaniel Kendrick; Dea- 
cons Jonathan Olmsted, Samuel Payne, and Samuel Osgood, 
Dr. Chas. W. Hull; Brethren Thomas Cox, Robert Powell, 
(afterwards ordained a minister, and the only survivor,) and 
Elisha Payne. Eight of this number were members of the 
Baptist church in Hamilton, two were from the Second 
Baptist church in Eaton, one from Sangerfield, one from 
Hartwick, Otsego county, and one was an itinerant mis- 
sionary. 

They were convened, as we have remarked, at the resi- 
dence of Deacon Olmsted, located about one mile from the 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 119 

village of Hamilton, directly south, a little below University 
Hill. 

The only survivor in that company represents the scene 
on that occasion as a marked and impressive one. The 
brethren were mostly seated upon the south side of the 
room. Eev. John Bostwick was chosen moderator, and Dr. 
Charles W. Hull, clerk. The meeting, duly organized, must 
then advance to the momentous question before it. Side by 
side sit those men, who for so many years were yoked 
together and foremost in this enterprise, to-wit, Hascall and 
Kendrick. ]S"one are hasty to deliver their opinions. There 
is a look of gravity upon all countenances, indicative of deep 
thought. There ensues a period of profound silence in the 
meeting, as if all, by common consent, were engaged in 
solemn and silent prayer. The hour was a momentous one. 
The object for which they had assembled was one of im- 
mense, almost appalling magnitude. A crisis was upon 
them. They, and they alone, must meet it. There was an 
evident trembling under the weight of responsibility rolled 
upon them; apprehensive lest they were unequal to the 
burden, and yet they saw no others to assume the burden of 
that eventful hour. Under the guidance of Divine Provi- 
dence they had advanced to a point from which they did not 
dare in conscience to recede. Shrink they could not. Like 
the children of Israel in the valley of Migdol, they must 
proceed though an undivided sea confronted them. At this 
stage of their reflections they instinctively turn to heavenly 
counsel. Prayer is proposed, and Mr. Kendrick is desired 
to lead in this exercise. All bow their knees before God, 
and their hearts go out as the heart of one man. When this 
season of devotion is concluded, they proceed to consider 
the constitution and plan of organization. The instrument 
offered as the basis of united action was discussed and 
adopted without opposition, but not without misgivings and 
fears for the result of their grave and anxious deliberations. 
As evidence that they had embarked in the enterprize with 



120 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D 

purse, as well as with pen, they commenced a subscription 
by signing one dollar each. Here was laid the corner-stone 
of the institution that has since risen to favor, commanding 
influence, and world-wide usefulness. There was the germ 
of what is now known as Madison University. It was 
planted in the hearts of a few noble Christian men, most of 
whom struggled with poverty. Nor was this the greatest 
obstacle which they were called to meet. Deep-rooted 
prejudices existed against the movement in churches of 
influence, and among ministering brethren of high standing ; 
and these could be eradicated only by patient and perse- 
vering effort in carrying forward the enterprize as one born 
of God, and destined to triumph. We are here reminded of 
the first donation said to have been made to Yale College, 
by eleven ministers, who brought forty books, using these 
words, as they laid them upon the table : " We give these 
books for founding a college in Connecticut." 

The brethren who had thus made this humble beginning 
in this cause were animated with hope, and inspired with 
zeal for energetic action. Nearly forty agents were appointed 
in the central and eastern portion of the state, who were 
expected to lend their services gratuitously in procuring 
subscriptions for the cause. Five hundred copies of the 
constitution, together with an address of three octavo pages, 
were printed and circulated. In this address an earnest plea 
was presented for ministerial education ; and as a stimu- 
lating argument, they urged the example of brethren in 
Great Britain, and in the eastern and middle states, who had 
already made some provision in this direction, and were 
beginning to reap the benefits of it. The same was true of 
the brethren in the city of New York and its vicinity. 

The great distance between the central part of the state 
and its emporium, precluded, of course, the apprehension of 
any clashing or interference with each other. Nothing could 
be anticipated but mutual good feeling, and a desire to ren- 
der reciprocal aid. The absence of railways made the moral 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 121 

distance commensurate with the geographical, and it was 
not even dreamed that the efforts which had commenced in 
the city in 1812, could ever reach in their results the central 
and western portions of the then new and undeveloped state. 

In about five months after the organization of the New 
York Baptist Education Society, an application for assistance 
was received from a licentiate of the Baptist Church of Hart- 
ford, Washington county. On the 14th of February, 1818, 
the Executive Committee duly examined Mr. Jonathan Wade, 
and accepted him as a beneficiary. He was immediately 
placed under the charge of Rev. Daniel Hascall. It was 
ascertained that others were anxious to be admitted to the 
same privileges, both in the vicinity of Hamilton and in. the 
eastern part of the state. 

It deserves to be mentioned in this place, that while Mr. 
Kendrick was active in co-operating with his brethren in the 
educational movement, he did not neglect measures that 
served to stimulate brethren already in the ministerial and 
pastoral work, to investigate thorougly the word of God, and 
become grounded and settled in the doctrines of grace. 
Chiefly through his instrumentality, a consociation was 
formed, the object of which was to promote the efficiency of 
the ministry and especially to aid the younger and less 
experienced in the sacred calling, in obtaining just views of 
systematic divinity. The first meeting of this body was 
held about a week after the Education Society was formed. 
Its sessions were bi-monthly. The exercises consisted of 
dissertations and discussions upon the doctrines of the Bible. 
Upon the question proposed at each meeting, every member 
was required to write, or prepare himself to give his views 
orally. The clerk was required to give a condensed summary 
of these views, which was read at the opening of the follow- 
ing meeting. In these sessions, they began with the first 
principles in theology ; and the plan pursued had no doubt 
a happy tendency to foster a spirit of vigilant inquiry. These 
exercises were not continued for a great length of time, as a 

11 



122 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

general revival of religion occurring in the spring following, 
imposed additional labors upon the ministry, which, besides 
the necessary steps for putting the Education Society in 
motion, left but little time to carry on in concert, the pro- 
jected measures of the consociation. But the plan was not 
without its practical value, in promoting the great work to 
which its originator had now consecrated himself. It served 
to impress many minds with the importance of systematic 
measures for imparting culture to the rising ministry. The 
only surviving member of the noble thirteen, who was then a 
young man, and about engaging in the ministry, has 
expressed the conviction, that he has ever since felt the 
benefit of those early discussions. In those discussions, 
Mr. Wade participated, and his views then elicited deep 
interest, supported as they were with much argumentative 
tact. 

In the attempt to plant a school designed especially and 
exclusively for the benefit of the rising ministry, the pro- 
jectors did not ignore the existence and the character of other 
schools of a high grade. We give their opinions in their 
own words : " We have well regulated schools, academies, 
and colleges, in which various sciences highly useful are 
taught. But they are far from affording all the advantages 
which are desirable, and which, by our united exertions, may 
be obtained for those young men whom God calls to the 
ministry of the gospel. We are fully of the opinion, that a 
different institution may be established for them, better 
adapted to the little time many of them have to study, and 
the means of defraying their expenses, as well as to the 
preservation of their morals and the promotion of their piety; 
an institution in which they shall be assisted in the pursuit 
both of literary and theological knowledge, and in which they 
shall be directed to such a course of studies as shall be 
deemed most conducive to their usefulness." 

It is important to notice this feature in the school which 
they now proposed to establish, a feature which it preserved 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICE, D. D. 123 

for about twenty years. It will explan the consistency of 
the position which Mr. Kendrick maintained, though he was 
overruled by the judgment of his brethren ; we refer here to 
the change which was made in the year 1839, which opened 
the doors of the institution to students not designed for the 
ministry, and gave it many of the features of an ordinary 
college. 

It will be seen that the plan was originally for the ministry 
alone, and the enterprise was placed wholly within the con- 
trol of the denomination, for the constitution of the society 
provided, that the board should be made up of members of 
good standing in some regular Baptist church. 

The safeguards were numerous and so arrayed, that the 
enterprise was not likely to be fustrated. The first annual 
meeting of the Baptist Education Society of the State of 
Kew York, was held in Sangerfield, June 3d, 1818. The 
opening sermon was delivered by Mr. Kendrick, from 2 Tim. 
2:2," And the things that thou hast heard of me among 
many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who 
shall be able to teach others also." 

The first anniversary of this society was of a decidedly 
encouraging character from numerous considerations. All the 
steps taken by the body and its board of officers, had been 
harmonious. It had not been anticipated that in the brief 
period betwen the organization of the society and its first 
anniversary, many of the churches would become familiar 
with its projected plan of a seminary, and yield it their sym- 
pathy, yet a goodly number had become acquainted with the 
enterprize, and many individuals gave it their cordial support. 
The field of operations was confined chiefly to the counties of 
Madison, Oneida, and Chenango. Through the instrumenta- 
lity of the following agents, viz. : Kev. Joel W. Clark, Caleb 
Douglas, and Daniel Hascall, about seventy contributors were 
secured, pledging their gifts, ranging from one dollar to a 
hundred dollars, and in one instance reaching the sum 
of four hundred dollars in real estate, and making in 



124 KEY. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

the aggregate two thousand one hundred and eighteen dol- 
lars and eighty-eight cents, exclusive of annual donations. 
These pledgeswere given on time of ten and twelve years, the 
one-half to paidin each year, with the privilege of redeeming 
the pledges, earlier if the donors desired. The names of these 
donors are to be seen with the respective sums subscribed by 
each in the first published report of the Society, and they are of 
themselves a memorial of good men, many, if not the most 
of whom are now among the sainted dead. Taking the effort 
as a whole, the most sanguine hopes of its friends were reali- 
zed and transcended. The dictates of divine providence were 
unequivocally to advance, and for this they constructed their 
plans. Steps were taken for some slight alterations in the 
constitution, and the trustees were directed to make applica- 
tion to the legislature, at their next session for an act of 
incorporation under the name which they had already assum- 
ed, viz.: " The Baptist Education Society of the State of 
New York." 

A still more important measure was adopted thus early, 
respecting the location of the proposed school. The com- 
mitte entrusted with the businss of selecting the most suita- 
ble site, consisted of Col. David Norton of Sangerfield, 
Elisha Payne, Esq., of Hamilton, Deacon John Morse, of 
Westmoreland, Charles Randall, Esq., of Norwich, Major 
Amos Smith, of Schuyler, Hon. Squier Monroe, of Camillus, 
Dr. William Fitch of Franklin. The members of the com- 
mittee were well distributed, that full justice might be ren- 
dered to the merits of the pending question of permanent 
location. 

Measures were also taken for promoting the interests of 
the society, by the appointment of agents, whose office was 
no sinecure, but rather involved a great amount of labor with- 
out any stipend whatever. About eleven were added to the 
list already commissioned to solicit funds. Besides this, seve- 
ral brethren were appointed to visit associations and the 
Executive Committee were to prepare a circular letter to the 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 125 

several associations which they wished to reach. At this 
stage of the enterprise, the acting members of the society 
were not inattentive to the health of the students, and recom- 
mend to the Executive Committee, the propriety of requiring 
of the students suitable exercise for the improvement of their 
health, while regarding this, an important subsidiary to the 
great and primary object of all their labors " the work of the 
ministry, and the edifying of the body of Christ." 

Mr. Kendrick was called to serve upon the Executive Com- 
mittee, and being an accurate and ready, if not strictly ele- 
gant writer, made out the reports of this body from time to 
time. This imposed a burden which he bore most cheerfully, 
and in doing which he became versed in all the details of the 
society's operations. 

The second anniversary of the society, was held in Whites- 
borough, June 2nd, 1819. The opening sermon was deliv- 
ered by the Rev. Joshua Bradley, from Ex. 33 : 15, " And 
he said unto him, if thy presence go not with me, carry us 
not up hence." 

Since the last anniversary the work of enlargement had 
gone forward steadily. The list of beneficiaries from a soli- 
tary member had been increased to six, and as they were the 
first fruits of this enterprize, we give their names, Norman 
Gitcan, William Watkins, Eugenio Kincaid, Yan Renssalaer 
Wall, and Harvey Blood. The most of these were engaged 
in preparatory study. Mr. Gitcan alone, was occupied in the 
study of divinity. The society's field of patronage had 
become very much extended during this year. 

The employment of the Rev. Elon Galusha as agent, secu- 
red the most efficient services in the way of diffusing a know- 
ledge of the enterprise, and securing to it contributors. 
Nearly four hundred contributors were obtained, and in the 
aggregate, the sum of eight thousand four hundred seventy- 
eight dollars and fifty-two cents, pledged in the counties of 
Madison, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Genesee. This liberality 

11* 



126 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 

awakened expectations that were not fully justified. It 
appears that some pledges were given with reference to the 
location of the contemplated institution, and inasmuch as 
the decision of the committee disappointed them, they did 
not feel bound to discharge their indebtedness ; some com- 
promised by paying a part, others died or emigrated, or 
became insolvent before the time expired in which the sub- 
scriptions were to be paid. Like many other subscriptions 
made to this and kindred causes there was a failure to realize 
the whole of specified sums. 

The committee of seven having failed to accomplish the 
object for which they were appointed, another committee 
consisting of three, viz.: Elisha Payne, Esq., of Hamilton, 
Dr. Charles Babcock of New Hartford and M. Monroe of 
Camillus, were appointed to select the most eligible situation 
within the counties of Oneida, Madison, Onondaga, and Cay- 
uga, and report at the next meeting of the Board. 

During this year the Education Society was chartered by 
the act of the Legislature of New York, bearing date March 
5th, 1819, and the object as avowed in the preamble was "to 
educate pious young men to the gospel ministry." 

It now became desirable to have the committee upon loca- 
tion discharge their duty. It was a question of moment, and 
elicited deep interest. Several towns evinced their enthu- 
siasm in this matter, by entering the field as competitors. 
Those deserving of particular mention are Skaneateles, Elb- 
ridge, Troupsville, Peterboro, and Hamilton. Generous con- 
tributions were offered on condition of being preferred. The 
grave and perplexing question was at length settled, by the 
decision of the board at its second meeting on the subject, 
held at Peterboro, on the third day of November 1818. It was 
decided to make Hamilton the seat of the institution, upon 
condition, " That the people in the village and vicinity, pay 
over to the institution the sum of six thousand dollars, in the 
following manner, viz.: three thousand five hundred dollars to 



KEV. NATHANIEL KEN BRICK, D. D. 127 

be laid out in a building, to be completed within four years, and 
two thousand five hundred dollars to be paid in board, at one 
dollar and fifty cents per week, in five equal annual pay- 
ments ; a place for the school was also to be furnished by 
the first of May." 

These conditions were accepted, and securities furnished 
for the fulfillment of the contract. 



128 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. T. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Private Teachers — Collection of Students — Opening of the School — First 
Tea her in it, Kev. Dr. Hascall — Co-operation of Vermont — Extended 
Sphere— Patrons — Graduation of the First Class — Growing favor of 
the Seminary — New Edifice — Means of Furnishing the same — Theo- 
logical Seminary in the City of New York —Scholarships — Consecra- 
tion services of Mr. and Mrs. Wade, as Missionaries to Burmah. 

Up to the date at which the question of location was defi- 
nitely settled, as noted in the last chapter, the New York 
Baptist Education Society had had no regularly organized 
school for the training of its beneficiaries. The number that 
had shared in the benefactions of the society was thirteen. 
These students, instead of being gathered at one place, had 
been distributed about in different places, though for the most 
part located either in Whiteboro' or Hamilton. They were 
either at academies or with private instructors, where they 
could be conveniently boarded and also advanced in study. 
We find in the list of those who engaged as private instruc- 
tors, to some one or more of the society's beneficiaries, Rev. 
Joel W. Clark, Daniel Putnam, Daniel Hascall, and the sub- 
ject of this memoir. 

It was now determined to collect the pupils in one place, 
and organize a distinct school for their instruction. Accord- 
ingly on the first of May, 1820, the school, having a member- 
ship of ten students, was formally opened in the village of 
Hamilton, occupying the third story of the brick building 
then used as the exclusive edifice, and subsequently for the 
ladies' department of the village academy. 

It was of vital moment to secure to the infant seminary — 
for such it was now designated — a permanent teacher. 
Counsel was sought from brethren abroad, and applications 



KEV. NATHANIEL KEXDRICK, D. D. 129 

were made successively to Messrs. Francis Wayland, Jr., 
and Adiel Sherwood, but without securing their services. 
These honored names were destined to adorn other seats of 
learning. The minds of the managers centered upon the 
Rev. Dr. Hascall, who had already rendered valuable services 
in the work of instruction, as one who, for the present, must 
take the superintendence of the school. He was still pastor 
of the church in Hamilton, but consented to occupy the post, 
and received for his compensation the moderate sum of 
twenty-two dollars and fifty cents per month. 

"His services proved so acceptable that he was subse- 
quently appointed to a permanent professorship, and continued 
many years in the service of the society, abounding in labors 
and sacrifices, and in various ways striving to promote a cause 
which lay very near his heart." For sixteen years he held a 
professorship in the institution, and in the meanwhile, when 
not engaged in imparting instruction to his classes, consenting 
to be the society's agent for the collection of funds, or 
assuming the work of a contractor in rearing the needed 
seminary buildings. He was ready to become a servant to 
all, if he might thereby push forward an enterprize which he 
firmly believed to be of God, and not of man. Honor to his 
memory, for he descended to his grave toiling for the pros- 
perity of this " school of the prophets." His last labors were 
put forth in its behalf, and those who visit the grounds of the 
university will look, with a tearful recollection of his virtues, 
at the marble shaft that has been reared upon the spot where 
his honored dust reposes. 

The labor of nearly three years had now been accomplished, 
and by the good hand of divine providence, it had been 
crowned with sufficient success to excite high hopes of future 
enlargement. The plan already projected for a spacious 
edifice, was evidence of progress, and called for corresponding 
measure of expansion in every direction whence the school 
was to derive its support. About the time that the question 
of location was pending, attempts were made to establish a 



130 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

seminary in the western part of Vermont, which would make 
a draft upon the eastern section of the Empire State. Aware 
of this project, then in its inception, the patrons of Hamilton 
Seminary deemed it desirable to effect a coalition between the 
two enterprizes, believing that such a coalition would promote 
the interests of Zion. A correspondence was opened between 
the two societies, and measures were inaugurated that led to 
the abandonment of a plan for a new and distinct school in 
Vermont. To bring about this union Mr. Kendrick was 
sent to visit the president of the society in Vermont, and 
several members of the board. His advances were met by 
the authors of the Vermont enterprize with a spirit of cor- 
responding liberality and paramount regard to the general 
interests of the cause. In his cousin and early friend, Rev. 
Clark Kendrick, especially, one of the leading Vermont 
ministers, and one of the originators of the Vermont move- 
ment, he found a cordial sympathizer, and one ready to sacri- 
fice all local considerations for the common good. Thus, by 
the exercise of much discretion and sound judgment, this 
delicate affair was successfully accomplished, and western 
Vermont identified her own educational movements with 
those of New York. 

This gave an enlarged sphere to the seminary. Its field 
was unobstructed to the Green Mountains on the east, and the 
Niagara river on the west, and its latitude on the north was 
determined by the natural chain of waters, Lake Ontario, and 
river St. Lawrence, and for its southern boundary reaching into 
the Keystone State. 

Within these prescribed limits, were nearly five hundred 
Baptist churches, about three hundred of which were west of 
the Hudson river. But a small number of these churches 
had then been visited by an agent of the seminary, or had 
become at all familiar with the operations of the Educational 
Society. The limits now defined left full scope for the new 
seminary. 

An efficient agency in promoting the aims of the institution 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 131 

was secured by the influence of such men as the Rev. Messrs. 
Joel W. Clark, John Peck, Elon Galusha, Deacon Jonathan 
Olmsted, and the subject of this memoir. It was a measure 
that gave proof of their judgment, to send, not a single one 
at a strong point, but two, and even three, to effect the object 
proposed. If the suggestion was borrowed from scripture, 
it was certainly none the less valuable on this account. In 
illustration of this, we refer to the visit, recorded in the so- 
ciety's Third Annual Report, of that triad of worthies, Kend- 
rick, Galusha, and Olmsted, to the city of Albany, and observe 
their success, while the object for which they pleaded was as 
yet but obscure and slightly known. Karnes adorn that sub- 
scription list, which it is even now edifying to review. There 
among others of less note, are registered the names of His 
Excellency, Gov. De Witt Clinton, of Lieut. Gov. Taylor, and 
of Chancellor Kent. 

In a tour of fifty days, made during this year, (1820), Mr. 
Kendrick secured to the society, by his individual labors, sub- 
scriptions to the amount of five hundred and one dollars and 
fifty cents, besides two hundred and ninety-five dollars and 
fifty cents, obtained in Albany with the co-operation of his col- 
leagues. Up to the close of the third fiscal year, ending 
June 7th, 1820, about eleven thousand five hundred dollars 
had been raised in donations and subscriptions, chiefly through 
the agency of the men whose names we have mentioned, but 
also with the aid of others whose record is in the earthly and 
heavenly Zion. 

During the first year after the organization of the seminary, 
but a single teacher was employed. The operations of the 
second year were conducted with the most rigid economy. 
Board was obtained at the low rate of a dollar per week, in- 
cluding lodging and washing, and of this fund but one-sixth 
was to be paid in cash, the remainder in produce, wheat being 
reckoned at seventy-five cents per bushel. This gave rise to 
many subscriptions in produce, and probably drew many to 
the support of the institution who otherwise would not have 



132 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

rendered it aid, or have become particularly interested in the 
cause. 

The school for the first year was divided into three classes, 
the first of which were completing their preparatory study, 
and ready at the close of the year to enter upon the study of 
theology. 

In the fall of the same year, Mr. Kendrick was employed 
to lecture on Moral Philosophy and Theology three times a 
week ; thus began his connection with the department of in- 
struction. For his services during the year (which were con- 
fined to the senior class,) he received the sum of forty-three 
dollars. At the expiration of the second year of the institution, 
its friends were permitted to witness the graduation of the first 
class, consisting of Jonathan Wade, Eugenio Kincaid, John 
G. Stearns, Jason Corwin, and Yan Rensselaer Wall, all of 
whom still live to labor in the cause of their Master, and two 
of whom have long been known as efficient missionaries in 
Burmah. 

Their graduation was of course the occasion upon which 
the seminary held its first anniversary. Its friends might well 
congratulate themselves upon an event so auspicious, and upon 
having achieved something worthy of their endeavors. 

The society had now assisted twenty-nine young men who 
had been approved and licensed by the churches ; some of this 
number had remained but a short time in the institution, a 
part had gone through with the prescribed course, and a part 
had yet to accomplish their plans of study. The brief period 
that had elapsed since the school began its work, had afforded 
but little opportunity to advertise the friends of the denomi- 
nation of the practical character, and active fruits of the enter- 
prise. At the fourth triennial session of the Baptist General 
Convention, held in Washington, in 1823, we find it noted in 
the minutes of that body, that "Brother Galusha gave a grati- 
fying account of the Theological Seminary at Hamilton, New 
York. Brother Bolles gave a short, but pleasing account of the 
college at Waterville, Maine. After which, the convention 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 133 

expressed their extreme pleasure in hearing of the success of 
these institutions, and hoped they might be eminently useful 
in the cause of religion and science." 

Another, and more effective method of apprizing the pub- 
lic of the existence of this school, and of its legitimate 
benefits, was through the agency of its students. These 
were sent out to supply vacant pulpits, sometimes for a sin- 
gle Lord's Day, and again for several weeks together ; 
besides, the vacations were occupied, more or less, in this 
kind of labor. This gave an opportunity for the people to 
make the acquaintance of the young men engaged in the 
seminary, and they would not fail through them to learn the 
object proposed by its projectors and friends. It is no ex- 
aggeration to say, that in the Christian character and pulpit 
exercises of these students, there was generally created a 
strong and decided impression, both in their favor, and in 
favor of the»school which they represented. There were not 
a few instances in which revivals of religion commenced 
under the labors of these candidates for the ministry, and in 
the converts to righteousness there were sure to be found 
warm friends of ministerial education. Through such in- 
strumentalities the churches were gradually constrained to 
lay aside their long-cherished prejudices, and became zealous 
in their support of this theological school ; and churches, in 
want of pastors, naturally began to look to it as a means of 
supplying their necessities. Thus the institution and cause 
to which it was consecrated, grew in favor, less by the formal 
advocacy of their claims through the pulpit and the press, 
than by the practical demonstration which they furnished of 
the utility to the preacher of systematic study. 

When it was shown, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that 
a man called of God to the functions of the sacred office, was 
rendered far more efficient by thorough mental training and 
scholastic discipline, it was no longer problematical whether 
concerted measures to perfect this culture were entitled to 
support. It was no longer a matter of doubtful experiment ; 

12 



134: EEV. NATHANIEL KENDSICK, D. D. 

it commended itself to every friend of Zion, and every co- 
worker in the cause of universal evangelism. 

The prosperous condition of the seminary at its second 
anniversary, the vigor and efficiency of the labors of Mr. 
Kendrick and his associates on its behalf, will be seen by a 
few simple statements. Eight students were graduated at 
this time. The scheme, printed for the occasion in Yan 
Sice's best style, is of antique character, and has names from 
the senior and middle classes that have since adorned various 
posts of usefulness in our beloved Zion. Seventeen orations 
are in the programme, followed by an address to the class 
from Prof. Kendrick. The liberal sheet on which it is printed 
possesses no slight historic interest. A copy of anniversary 
scheme of thirty years ago, is no uninstructive relic of the 
past. It guides us to the head springs of influence which 
have since sent forth living streams of healing power. As 
a single copy of a newspaper, tells at a glance ii£ own story 
of the age in which it was issued, so here, the anniversary 
sheet of the institution is an index of its condition. 

The organization of the institution now also received a 
degree of completeness and permanence which it had hitherto 
lacked. The instructors hitherto temporarily employed, 
were, after full experience of their competence, confirmed in 
their appointments ; and Rev. Daniel Hascall was then for- 
mally elected Professor of the Latin and Greek Languages, 
and Mr. Kendrick of Christian Theology, each with a salary 
of $400 per annum. 

This anniversary was also an eventful one, from the fact 
that the straitened quarters of the school, in the 'third story of 
the academy, were to be exchanged for the new stone edifice 
then completed. This structure, thirty-six by sixty-four feet, 
and three stories high, offered eligible accommodations, much 
in advance of the former building. This edifice, complete in 
its arrangements, greeted the eyes of visitors six months 
earlier than was specified in the contract, much to the credit 
of the people of Hamilton. The committee appointed to 



K E V. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 135 

estimate the building and board, and to decide upon the ful- 
fillment of the contract, consisting of Rev. Alfred Bennett, 
brethren Charles Randall, and Seneca B. Burchard, reported 
a fulfillment of the contract, with a little over thirty dollars 
in favor of the covenanters. 

The investment of over five thousand dollars in a building, 
consisting of rooms for students, and suitable apartments for 
recitations, and rhetorical purposes, required anew draft upon 
the liberality of friends for the means of furnishing it. To 
meet this necessity, an appeal was made to the benevolence 
of ladies, who were encouraged by the general agent of the 
Education Society, and others, to form female societies for 
the purpose of aiding in the cause of ministerial culture. 
The donations that took the form of necessary articles in the 
furniture of the building, were highly acceptable, and of 
greater value than money, for such gifts stimulated many to 
offer small contributions with the needle, or the fruits of 
femals industry, who would not have deemed themselves 
able to present money to any considerable amount. Thus 
they were admitted to the luxury of doing something for the 
good cause, and were stimulated to other and still larger 
gifts. 

It would disparage the work of female societies if we 
were to mention only small donation, since among the early 
benefactions from this source, we must place to the credit of 
the "New York Female Baptist Association for Education 
Purposes," a temporary scholarship amounting to two hun- 
dred and ten dollars. 

The Institution had now reached the sum of twenty-five 
hundred dollars per annum in its current expenses. To 
provide this amount, contributions were solicited annually 
from the churches, and individuals of well-known liberality 
were appealed to. The most competent men were selected 
for this collecting agency. The names of Galusha, Clark, 
Peck, Warren, Olmsted, Hascall, and Kendrick could never 
pass from memory because of their labors in this department 



136 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

alone. The territory was now extending from which contri- 
butions were gathered. "Vermont, as already hinted, had 
opened her fruitful field and given one of her most gifted 
sons in the person of the Rev. Clark Kendrick to be the 
solicitor and almoner of her bounties. This example was 
followed by the brethren of the metropolis, and of the state 
of Connecticut. The New York Baptist Theological Semi- 
nary in the City of New York, formed a coalition with the 
New York Baptist Education Society. The resolution passed 
by the board of this body, is dated March 14th, 1823, and 
reads thus: "Resolved, That it is expedient to send the 
seminary at Hamilton, such an annual sum as may be con- 
veniently spared, and such students as may by this board be 
received." 

In a report presented the following year, we find this 
minute expressive of the view of the society. " The 
Hamilton Institution combines utility and economy. The 
course of instruction there pursued meets our entire appro- 
bation, and in the integrity, intelligence, and evangelical zeal 
of its Professors, we repose the most unlimited confidence. 
The Institution, although but in its infancy, now contains 
forty-three theological students, of whom thirty-eight are 
beneficiaries, and for whose support, fresh and vigorous 
efforts must be made." 

From all the information that we have been able to glean 
from different sources, pertaining to the operations of the 
Theological Seminary in the City, we do not learn that its 
students were at any time numerous. The report of 1822, 
makes mention that "the Faculty of Instruction, by a late 
election of the Board of Trustees, consists of 

Rev. John Stanford, A. M., President and Professor 
of Theology ; 

Rev. Archibald Maclay, A. M., Professor of Ecclesias- 
tical History and Biblical Literature ; 

Mr. Daniel H. Barnes, A. M., Professor of Languages ; 



EE V. NATH ANIEL KBNDEICK, D. D. 137 

who have already entered on the duties of their professor- 
ships." 

This seminary was remembered in the munificent gifts of 
John Withington. In the list of his bequests to various 
objects, amounting in all to over forty thousand dollars, we 
find twelve hundred dollars given to this school. 

As preeminently efficient in preparing the way for the 
union of these two societies, the general agent, (Rev. Joel 
W. Clark,) made special mention of brethren Barnes, Maclay 
and Colgate. 

" These excellent brethren," says he, "had pursued such a 
course in regard to the great and good object to be accom- 
plished, as will ever mark the worth of prudence and wisdom, 
and should put their praise in all the churches." 

This union was one of the most auspicious events to the 
Hamilton Institution. The churches of the city became 
valuable contributors, and of their young men who were con- 
verted to Christ, those who were called to the ministry, began 
to seek in this school, the requisite preparation for their work. 
Similar encouragement was derived from the state of Con- 
necticut. 

Another favorable feature marked the history of the present 
year, preserving a financial stability and growth beyond the 
most sanguine expectation of its founders. 

We refer now to scholarships, endowed with a thousand 
dollars each, the interest of which was sufficient to support 
a student, and which would of course bear the donor's name. 
Five of these perpetual scholarships were secured. The 
names of Olmsted, Monroe, and Moss were the first enrolled 
in this work, each individual subscribing his thousand dollars, 
and the other two referred to were raised by individuals 
uniting their means, and called the Crandall, Fox and 
Gregory's scholarship, and the other the Canaan and Aus- 
terlitz's scholarship. 

Three days after the commencement exercises, the com- 
mittee in the State of Xew York, appointed by the Baptist 

12* 



138 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 



Board of Foreign Missions in the United States, to examine 
candidates for missionary service among the heathen, were 
convened in Hamilton for the pleasing task of determining 
upon the qualifications of the first beneficiary of the Educa- 
tion Society, Mr. Jonathan Wade, and his wife, Mrs. Deborah 
Wade. The result of their examination was a unanimous 
recommendation to send them as missionaries to the empire 
of Burmah. The eleventh of June was appointed as the 
day of their formal consecration to this work. The public 
exercises were held in Utica. It was a memorable day to 
those godly men who bore part in the solemn and appro- 
priate services. It was offering up the first fruits of their 
favorite enterprise to the heathen world ; thus pledging their 
"school of the prophets" to the missionary cause, as well as 
to ministerial culture. This devotement of the first-born of 
this institution to heathen lands proved an earnest of after 
gifts. Many have since followed the example of Mr. Wade, 
and what is more, the example of the Great Missionary 
from heaven to earth. 

The services on this occssion consisted of a sermon by 
Mr. Kendrick, founded upon 2 Tim. 2: 10 — "Therefore I 
endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also 
obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal 
glory." Rev. Alfred Bennett, of Homer, offered the conse- 
crating prayer. Rev. Daniel Hascall gave the charge ; and 
Rev. Joel W. Clark presented the hand of fellowship. Rev. 
John Peck delivered some appropriate remarks to Mrs. 
Wade; and Rev. Elon Galusha tendered her the hand of 
Christian fellowship ; and the concluding prayer was offered 
by Rev. E F. Willey. It is said, "The services were 
solemn, affecting, and deeply interesting to all who attended. 
It was a season that can never be forgotten by many who 
were present." 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 139 



CHAPTER XIV. 

FROM 1824—1327 INCLUSIVE. 

Death of prominent Members of the Board — Death of Mrs. Kendrick — 
Current Expenses — Provision for the same — Scholarships — Legacies 
— Providential Aid — Enlargement — Donation of Deacon Payne — 
Incident — Site of University Buildings — Tours of Dr. Kendrick — 
Increase of Teachers — Chan c e of Vacations — Completion and Open- 
ing of New Edifice. 

As the life and labors of Dr. Kendrick were now thor- 
oughly identified with the Seminary, its history will, to a 
great extent, be a record of his own biography. Being a 
member of the Faculty, and one of the Executive Committee, 
and Corresponding Secretary, he must of necessity be versed 
in all the details of business connected with the Education 
Society, and the internal management of the school. No 
new plan could be projected but it must come before his 
mind prior to its adoption by the Board ; and every item of 
interest that pertained to the welfare of the institution was 
at once brought to his knowledge, and often he was the chief 
and only channel of communication with the Board. 

In the Seventh Annual Report, which covers a part of the 
period indicated by the heading of this chapter, there is a 
notice of the decease of two members of the Board, whose 
removal was felt as a severe less. One was the Rev. Clark 
Kendrick, of Poultney, Yt., the acting President of the 
Board, and the superintending agent of the cause of minis- 
terial education in his own state. This fellow-laborer of 
the subject of this memoir, converted about the same time, 
and being a kinsman of his also, was closely identified with 
him in the promotion of the general cause of ministerial 
education. No one, probably, exerted a greater influence 



140 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

upon the people of his own state in bringing about the coalition 
of the Educational Society of Vermont with that of New 
York, to which allusion has been made ; and after the union 
was perfected, and the project of a state institution abandoned, 
he was particularly active and efficient in raising funds for 
the Hamilton school, and directing young men called to the 
ministry to seek its privileges. For many years the Green 
Mountain State furnished a good proportion of students, and 
was liberal in her benefactions to the school. In this supply 
of men and means the influence of the Rev. Clark Kendrick 
was marked and decisive. His eloquence was often employed 
to advance the general interests of the Education Society, 
and his removal in the year 1824 was no common loss to this 
branch of Christian enterprise, as well as to Zion at large. 

The other member of the board to whom we refer was 
the Rev. Obed. Warren, intimately known to the brother 
whose decease we have just noticed. For his tried excellence 
and true-hearted devotion to every good work he deserves to 
be had in lasting remembrance. In different offices he was 
found faithful and efficient, and was very useful to the semi- 
nary as an agent in collecting funds. The decease of these 
brethren removed two reliable pillars from the institution. 

Mr. Kendrick was called to present funeral discourses of 
both these ministers, extracts from which have appeared ; of 
the former, in the American Baptist Magazine of July, 1824, 
and of the latter in the biographical sketches of the History 
of the New York Baptist Convention. 

Another event must here be recorded, affecting more inti- 
mately the domestic circle of Mr. Kendrick. In the fall of 
1824, he experienced a heavy family affliction in death of his 
wife. It occurred on the eighth of November, its immediate 
cause was consumption. The disease had fastened upon her 
naturally frail constitution, and rapidly developed itself in the 
last few months of her life. Her death was a triumph of 
Christian faith, and left another bright attestation to the 
mourning husband of that Scripture sentiment — " Precious 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 141 

in the sight of the Lord is the death of the saints." Thus 
alike in his own family, and in the circle of Christian ministers 
intimately associated with him in building up the seminary, 
was he chastened of the Lord. 

The current expenses of the school for the period now 
under review, ranged from about three thousand three hun- 
hundred to over four thousand four hundred dollars. The 
collection of funds to this amount from year to year^ 
demanded unremitting vigilance. Being purely a religious 
enterprise, it required not only financial ability in the 
managers, but strong faith in God, and earnest piety to 
follow out the measures projected. Recourse to annual 
solicitations often in small sums, imposed the necessity of 
agency work. This was often devolved upon the faculty of 
instruction, when other instrumentalities failed. The collec- 
tion of these small offerings was subject to a heavy per- 
centage, but an advantage was secured in the wider interest 
thus awakened in the institution. 

The projectors of the school, now began to receive more 
substantial tokens of favor in permanent scholarships of one 
thousand dollars each, the interest of which was sufficient to 
maintain a student from year to year. 

Besides these, temporary scholarships were constituted by 
the payment of seventy dollars annually, for a term of three 
years. About seventeen of these were procured in the City 
of New York, with the hope that they would be renewed at 
the close of the period. In securing these generous contri- 
butions, the general agent, Rev. J. W. Clark, was assisted 
by Mr. Kendrick. The very favorable reception of the cause 
in that quarter, awakened lively gratitude, and prompted 
gloAving language in the report offered to the board. To 
add to the gratification of the managers of the Seminary, a 
loan was made from the society in Connecticut to the society 
of New York State of six hundred dollars, and personal loans 
were made of two hundred and fifty dollars, besides, subscrip- 
tions of over thirteen hundred dollars, and a bequest of 



142 REV. NATHANIEL KENBEICI, D. D. 

one thousand dollars. Another source of encouragement was 
offered in the form of legacies, pledged to the institution. 
The very seasonable donations to the institution, served 
often to encourage its friends, especially those to whom the 
responsibilty of its guidance and control was committed. 
To be in pressing need and yet know not whence supplies 
would be obtained, was calculated to make the managers 
look with hopeful eyes towards every avenue through which 
aid might possible flow. To be surprised with help from an 
unexpected quarter was greeted as a manifest token of divine 
favor. Occasions there were of this kind in this term of four 
years. Near the commencement of the seminary year, 1825, 
the treasury was empty. From a distant city upon the 
Atlantic coast, brethren Nathaniel R. Cobb and J. P. Jones 
forwarded each a hundred dollars. It was a godsend. Since 
the name of the former has become familiar as a household 
word among the friends of benevolent enterprises, it may not 
be amiss to say that he was first introduced to the general 
agent in New York, by Dr. Sharp, and made a tender of 
fifty dollars for his first donation, as the cause was well 
endorsed by the Boston minister ; and the gift had several 
worthy successors. 

The numerous tokens of approbation from abroad, and the 
substantial evidence of support in the shape of u material 
aid," left no room to doubt that the enterprise of ministerial 
education as begun in Hamilton, must advance. The 
increasing membership of the school called for accommo- 
dations upon a larger scale. Impressed with these convictions 
the board in August 17th, 1825, authorized the executive 
committee to erect another building of much ampler dimen- 
sions to accommodate the students, provided they could do it 
without interfering with the funds already obtained. This 
measure was further justified by the promise of aid from a 
source unlooked for, the particular occasion of which will be 
subsequently noticed. 

To show a little what the standing of the seminary was, 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 143 

we may here give an extract from a letter of Dr. Gano, of 
Rhode Island, to Dr. Kendrick. It bears date June 28th, 
1824, and was written soon after a visit made to Hamilton : 

" The prospects of usefulness from the institution with 
which you are connected, in the cause of the precious Re- 
deemer, is greatly encouraging. I have seen no seminary of 
the kind that appears to me so well calculated to fit young 
men for the work of the ministry. May Heaven smile upon 
it, and abundantly bless you in the work in which you are 
engaged." 

The project of enlargement was not suddenly conceived, 
nor was it hastily acted upon. Time was taken for frequent 
and full deliberations, both with individuals and with the 
sister body in the city of Xew York. The result was to 
proceed to # measures for the erection of a spacious edifice. 
The society in the city adopted the most cordial and ap- 
proving resolutions upon the subject. Despite all the care 
and vexation of contracting for an edifice and overseeing its 
construction, along with the discharge of duties of instruc- 
tion, the Rev. Mr. Hascall assumed this double burden. 

While these measures were maturing, a donation was made 
to the Education Society which deserves special notice, alike 
from the value of the gift itself, and the circumstances and 
motives of the giver. We refer to the farm of Deacon 
Samuel Payne, consisting of one hundred and twenty-three 
acres, valued at $4000, and including the present site of the 
university buildings. The whole was made over to the 
society by a warrantee deed, allowing to the donor and his 
wife the use of nearly one-half of the farm during their 
lives. 

An incident attending the settlement of the place, and the 
part which Mr. Payne bore in it, deserves mention here. 
Being one of the first to penetrate the unbroken wilderness, 
he is said to have taken his axe in hand, and after having 
struck the first blow into one of the trees of the standing 
forest, he bowed the suppliant knee in the solitude of the 



144 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

wilderness, and prayed that there might be a Baptist church 
in the town. The period of his settlement was in the year 
1794, and in 1796 the First Baptist Church of Hamilton was 
organized. It is a pleasing reminiscence now, to learn, that 
the chosen spot of his devotions at that time, was very near, 
if not the identical site now occupied by one of the univer- 
sity buildings. Thus the very soil was consecrated by the 
act of prayer, which was subsequently made over to the 
cause of Christ, and the overshadowing trees were converted 
into a natural sanctuary, and the hill then made vocal with 
the breathings of earnest prayer, which has since become a 
modern Carmel. 

All who visit Hamilton, can entertain but one opinion of 
its beauty. The hill upon which the university buildings 
stand overlooks the village, and commands a charming pros- 
pect of a few miles around. The vale resembles somewhat 
an amphitheatre, the university hill constituting the raised 
platform, while the more elevated summit in the south forms 
the back ground of the triangular or circular range of hills. 

The selection of a new site, separated from the old one by 
nearly a hundred rods, rendered it necessary to construct a 
boarding hall in connection with the new building. These 
outlays demanded about $7,500. Two thousand dollars were 
invested by the New York Theological Society, in the form 
of scholarships, bearing the worthy names of Withington 
and Hunter, besides one thousand which they had previously 
advanced. Another scholarship was invested in the board- 
ing hall edifice. This large outlay of funds called for vigor- 
ous measures to raise the requisite amount. 

In the course of one year Dr. Kendrick made three tours, 
one in the month of June, through the counties of Cortland, 
Seneca and Cayuga. He, and other agents, made large 
collections in produce, where money could not be raised. In 
the month of September, 1826, he made a tour to the city, 
principally to obtain funds for the building. This was a 
highly successful one, resulting in a loan of a thousand dol- 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDEIOK, D. D. 145 

lars, from the New York Baptist Theological Seminary, 
towards the building, besides other sums for the school. 
During the winter he took a tour through the western part 
of Massachusetts, and the states of Connecticut and Vermont, 
collecting over eleven hundred dollars. Other members of 
the faculty were also sent abroad upon collecting tours, and 
but for their perseverance in their solicitations the scheme 
must have failed. 

During the period now sketched the faculty had been 
increased only by the addition of a tutor. In this capacity 
Beriah N. Leach was first called to serve, and afterwards 
Chancellor Hartshorn, both brethren that had shared the 
benefits of the school with credit to themselves and honor to 
their instructors. 

The seminary graduated at the rate of eleven per year, and 
was receiving accessions at the rate of twenty. Thus its 
membership was increasing year by year. No marked change 
was perceptible in the course of stud}^, save that it was 
gradally gaining in symmetry and in completeness. An 
important change was effected in the vacations of the school. 
From the first opening of the seminary in May, 1820 to 1826, 
the annual vacations amounted to eight weeks, but then they 
were extended to fourteen, of which twelve were to occur in 
the winter, beginning with the first of December. This was 
done to facilitate the objects of the institution. Beneficiaries 
could devote three months to school teaching and preaching 
among the destitute churches. They could thus assist them- 
selves in clothing, and were expected to bring the sum of 
twenty dollars each into the general treasury. 

The crowning event in the period which we have now 
hastily surveyed was the completion of the new edifice, which 
had been undertaken with so much anxiety, and carried for- 
ward under auspicious tokens of divine providence. Before 
this consummation was reached, and while the friends were 
struggling in the endeavor, Dr. Cone, of New York, than 

13 



146 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

whom a heartier supporter was rarely found, gave vent to 
his anxiety in the following strain : — 

" The enlargement of your premises is an important mat- 
ter. Your troubles will be multiplied ; your responsibilities 
increased, and much ampler means of future support must 
be provided than have heretofore been found necessary. And 
will the doctrinal correctness of the institution be thereby 
secured, and its evangelical usefulness enhanced ? This, to 
say the most, is but problematical. Under existing circum- 
stances I feel deeply interested for Hamilton Theological 
Seminary, but should other circumstances arise that feeling 
would be gone entirely, and I might be left to regret the 
efforts used to enlarge and render permanent an establishment 
calculated to do rather harm than good. 

" I leave this subject, however, for the present. We may, 
not long hence, have an opportunity of talking it over more 
at large, and the superior advantages of large theological in- 
stitutions over smaller ones, may hereafter appear to a mind 
which is at this time too obtuse to perceive them." 

In the face of misgivings with some, the work advanced, 
and the tenth annual meeting of the Education Society wit- 
nessed the completion of the new edifice, (now known as the 
Western). 

Accompanying the report of that year, is a notice to this 
effect : 

" On Tuesday preceding the annual meeting, the new semi- 
nary was opened by an appropriate sermon from Rev. Ste- 
phen Grano, of Providence, R. I., from Isa. 29 : 11, 12, 'And 
the vision of all is become to you as the words of a book that 
is sealed, which men deliver unto one that is learned, saying, 
read this, I pray thee ; and he saith, I cannot, for it is sealed. 
And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, 
read this I pray thee : and he saith I am not learned.' 

"The meeting was held in the chapel, containing a part of 
the third and fourth stories of the building. The assembly 
was large, and deeply interested by the discourse ; and an 



D. D. 147 

address from Professor Hascall, embracing a view of the pro- 
vidence of God which had conducted the institution to its 
present elevation ; after which a collection was taken of one 
hundred and eleven dollars. 

" The annual meeting of the association of the alumni and 
friends, was held in the afternoon of the same day, when a 
number of able and interesting addresses were made to the 
meeting. The day was closed by an exhibition of the middle 
class. 

" The day following was set apart to the public perform- 
ances of the senior class, together with three from the middle 
class. As far as Christians could judge, there appeared an 
unction from the Holy One, which rendered the whole trans- 
actions interesting ; and many could say, it is good to be 
here." 

The executive committee gave utterance to the sentiment 
which was generally and widely adopted by the friends of 
ministerial education, in the following lines, which concluded 
their report in June, 182? : 

" The increasing favor of this institution, in the eyes of 
God's people, manifested by their prayers and liberalities, and 
the progress with which it has been built up under his provi- 
dence, are regarded as a proof of divine approbation, and a 
presage of its future usefulness to the cause of Christ." 



148 REV. NATHANIEL K END RICK, D. D. 



CHAPTER XV. 

FROM 1828—1833 INCLUSIVE. 

Occupancy of New Edifice — Gradual Changes — Additional Teachers — 
Course of Study Extended — Preparatory Department — Another Pro- 
fessor — Change and Reduction of Vacations — Beneficiaries — Manual 
Labor — Current Expenses — Salaries — Raising Funds — Providential 
Relief. 

The last chapter conducted us through an important stage 
in the history of the seminary. Its more eligible site and 
commodious structure, gave unmistakable signs of prosperity. 
There was now provision for nearly one hundred students. 
To this structure of liberal dimensions, the school was now 
removed, consisting of about eighty students, of whom forty 
were beneficiaries. Such was now the growing prosperity of 
the seminary, as marked by the increase of its students, that 
it required, at the end of six years, another enlargement of 
its means of accommodation. The least number entered 
during any one of the six years, was nineteen, and the high- 
est forty-nine. 

In the large accessions from year to year, new demands 
were made upon the managers to meet the exigences that 
were arising in the transition period of the school. The 
wants of candidates for admission, were materially different. 
Some were advanced to such a period of maturity both of 
years and of practical experience, as not to justify their con- 
nection with the institution for more than two or three years, 
while there were others, younger in age, or less experience, 
whose term of pupilage might profitably be extended to six 
years, and more. With the influx of students whose ages, 
capacities, circumstances and wants, were various, arose the 
question of establishing a preparatory school as an auxiliary 



D. D. 149 

to the institution, but to which pious young men of any reli- 
gious denomination, might be admitted, and for which a for- 
mal approval or action of the church, should not be deman- 
ded. The matter, however, being submitted to the board of 
the Education Societyof New York city, was regarded by them 
as a hazardous experiment, and the plan was accordingly 
abandoned. 

It was with a jealous eye, that every change was scrutin- 
ized, that would seem to abridge the privileges of those for 
whom the seminary was especially founded. The spirit of 
conservation was a dominant one in the deliberations and 
decisions of the board of trustees. There were changes, 
however, which they were compelled to make. For the 
most part, they were gradually made, and experience very 
soon justified their adoption. 

During the first year after entering the new building, the 
school was in a measure organized, and additional studies 
provided for those who wished to pursue a more extended 
classical and biblical course. 

This called for more help in instruction. Up to this time, 
two professors and a tutor had sufficed. The list was now 
increased by the election of Mr. Seth S. Whitman, who 
entered upon the duties of his office about the first of March, 
1828. In the following year it was necessary to add another 
professor, and to make a new arrangement in the duties 
assigned to the several teachers. The departments of instruc- 
tion were thus distributed: to Prof. Hascall was assigned 
Natural Philosophy and Sacred Rhetoric; to Dr. Kendrick, 
Systematic and Pastoral Theology, and Moral Philosophy ; 
to Prof. Whitman, Hebrew and Biblical Criticism ; and to 
the newly elected Professor, Barnas Sears, the Chair of 
Languages. 

The last named professorship was first tendered to the 
Rev. Daniel H. Barnes, of New York City, an eminent scholar 
and a highly successful teacher of youth. He visited Hamil- 
ton, and spent a few days at the institution, and consulted 

13* 



150 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, 1). D. 

freely with the executive committee upon the state and 
prospects of the school. Sudden death prevented his accept- 
ance of the appointment. On the public road, in attempting 
to escape from the stage coach, from which the driver had 
been thrown, he fell and injured his head so as to cause 
almost immediate death. Thus one of whom high hopes 
had been cherished, and who had many years before been 
selected for the same chair in New York Theological Semi- 
nary, was unexpectedly removed. 

At the same time with the accession of Prof. Sears, the 
classical department was extended so that the whole course 
in 1829 embraced four years. The theological department, 
however, was equally open to those whose age and circum- 
stances prohibited their taking anything more than a short 
English course. 

In 1831 a preparatory department was organized, and Mr. 
Asahel C. Kendrick (son of Rev. Clark Kendrick, of Ver- 
mont,) was employed as teacher for one year. At the 
expiration of this term he was unanimously elected to a pro- 
fessorship of languages, and became a permanent teacher. 
With this new addition to the course of study, the whole 
period embraced six years. The candidates for admission 
were still confined to those whom the churches recommended 
as possessing gifts and graces which indicated their call to 
the work of the ministry. 

The board were still impressed with the conviction that 
they had not made ample provision for instruction. There was 
yet a call for a mathematical chair. To reap the benefits of a 
higher mathematical course, five of the students, among those 
of the first promise, had left to avail themselves of a regular 
collegiate system, and the year after, ten made up their minds 
to follow their example. This matter assumed so grave a 
character, that a special committee was appointed to investi- 
gate thoroughly the internal state of the institution. They 
met in March, 1832, and were unanimous in their opinion, 
that in view of the amount of labor performed by the pro- 



E E V. NATHANIEL KEXDEICK, D. D. 151 

fessors, and the rapid increase of students, another professor 
was greatly needed. The board could no longer hesitate 
to meet the demand, and Rev. Joel S. Bacon, President of 
Georgetown College, was called to the Professorship of 
Mathematics and Natural Philosophy. 

With the changes now indicated, others became necessary 
as the fruit of experience. 

After about six years' trial of the long vacation of twelve 
weeks in the winter, the executive committee were fully 
convinced that it was not the best arrangement. While it 
facilitated measures for defraying the expenses of students, 
it retarded their progress in study, by depriving them of the 
best portion of the year for study, and giving them no 
relaxation from study when they most required it, in the 
heat of summer. This sacrifice of time, on the part of a 
hundred young men, eager to enter the harvest fields, could 
not be regarded with indifference ; besides, the list of bene- 
ficiaries was relatively reduced from what it was in the 
incipient stages of the school. The committee accordingly 
reduced the time given to vacations from fourteen weeks to 
ten, making the longest vacation, of six weeks, to commence 
on the third Monday in August. 

This arrangement being made, the board no longer insisted 
upon the payment of twenty dollars annually on the part of 
each beneficiary, toward his expenses. Mature convictions 
determined the board to adopt the same plan which the 
Northern Baptist, and the American Education Societies had 
done, viz.: not to furnish gratuitous aid to indigent young 
men, but to make the annual appropriation a loan, subject to 
no interest until they left the institution. 

This regulation did not affect those who were beneficiaries 
of scholarships, or of auxiliary societies. There was a discre- 
tionary power also with the executive, to relinquish all 
claims on those who became permanent missionaries, and to 
cancel wholly or in part, the obligations of others wliD 



152 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

remained indigent in their circumstances, and were unable to 
repay the sums advanced. 

The students, meantime, were encouraged to devote some 
attention to manual labor, as a matter both of health and 
economy. A society for the systematic performance of manual 
labor was organized, called with reference to its object, the 
Philoponian Society. Although the fruits of this labor pecu- 
niarily, were small, yet for the physical as well as mental 
benefits derived from it, the board earnestly recommended its 
continuance. Indeed, in compliance with a unanimous peti- 
tion originating with the students, the board required manual 
labor of all the members of the institution, except in cases of 
inability, or for other reasons which might apply more espe- 
cially to those who defrayed their own expenses. 

To render the adoption of this measure practicable, it 
became necessary to introduce mechanical branches of indus- 
try, so that no interruptions should take place from change 
of weather and seasons. In the spring of 1832, a workshop 
was fitted up and furnished with the requisite stock, and 
tools, for the manufacture of window-sash. Providentially 
one of their number, well acquainted with the business, was 
ready to superintend the factory, in order thus to meet the 
expenses of his education. 

The current expenses of the school were increased in this 
term of six years, so that in the closing one 1833, they 
reached the sum of seven thousand five hundred and seven 
dollars and thirty-six cents. The. membership of the semin- 
ary had increased, and in place of two professors and one 
tutor, the faculty now consisted of six permanent professors, 
and the sum originally fixed upon for their support, was no 
longer adequate to their wants. Up to the year 1830, no 
one of the faculty received more than four hundred dollars 
per year, as his stated salary ; but at this time their salaries 
were increased to five hundred dollars, per year. The board of 
students, including lodging and washing, was furnished at 
one dollar per week, so that the whole expense for board and 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 153 

tuition, reached but the moderate sum of fifty-four dollars, 
per year. Thus the financial affairs of the school, were con- 
ducted with the most rigid economy. 

To provide the means for current expenses, the chief 
dependence was upon agencies. In the failure of the board 
to obtain the services of one who could give his undivided 
energies to the collection of funds, the professors were chosen 
and sent among the churches for this object. To avoid as 
far as possible a conflict of duties, the seasons of vacation 
were devoted to this work. Local agents were also leaned 
upon, to some extent, and here and there a layman was draf- 
ted out for a single tour of a few weeks. Special depend- 
ence, however, was still placed upon Dr. Kendrick, for the 
raising of funds. During each year of this period, it devolved 
upon him to go abroad for the purpose of soliciting aid 
Each tour occupying sometimes nearly three months. In 
one of these, commenced on the fifth of January, 1829, 
embracing two months, he visited the counties of Duchess, 
Berkshire, Bennington, Rutland, and Addison, on the west 
of the Green Mountains, and crossed Lake Champlain, into 
Clinton county, and went as far north as Plattsburgh. In 
the following year he made a tour occupying eleven weeks in 
which he visited New York City, the counties of Duchess. 
Rensselaer, Saratoga, and Washington, besides meeting some 
unfinished business in the counties of Rutland, and Addi- 
son, in the State of Vermont. One plan which he adopted 
upon this solicitation tour, was to obtain an annual subscrip- 
tion, to be continued for five years, and where it was conve- 
nient receive the first installment, leaving the original sub- 
scription, in every place, with an efficient agent, to collect 
and forward to the treasurer, as it should become due. This 
plan looked to the desirableness of dispensing with annual 
agency work. 

In the following year Mr. Kendriek's visit to New York 
City, resulted in obtaining three scholarships of one thousand 
dollars each, besides subscriptions to cancel a loan with 



154 REV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

interest, amounting to nine hundred and eighty-nine dollars 
and twelve cents, and subscriptions for present use, amounting 
to five hundred and thirteen dollars. The year succeeding 
this, he made three tours, and was highly favored in his mis- 
sion. 

The state of Connecticut, from local considerations with- 
drew her support in 1829, still cherishing friendly disposi- 
tions. Yermont still continued her patronage of students 
and " material aid." 

In conducting the finances of this school, there were 
numerous occasions to witness unexpected relief, when its 
managers were oppressed with indebtedness. In 1830, there 
was opportunity to mark a striking providence of this cha- 
racter. Reliance was made upon a pledge of five hundred 
dollars, from the sister society in New York City. It was 
greatly needed, and Prof. Sears was appointed special agent 
to visit the board in New York, and obtain the money, but 
the time for raising it was so unpropitious that it was judged 
expedient to postpone its collection until six months later. 
Just then a door of relief was opened in the following man- 
ner. The Hon. Heman Lincoln of Boston in his negotiations 
with the Secretary of War, succeeded in procuring arrears 
from the general government of the United States, due the 
Education Society, amounting to six hundred and twenty- 
seven dollars and fifty cents. This indebtedness was incurred 
for the education of seven Indian youth, from the Carey Sta- 
tion, Michigan, who entered the institution in 1826, for the 
term of four years, three of whom left before the term expired, 
and four remained, a part of the year after. The patronage 
obtained from the United States government, required con- 
siderable correspondence to be conducted by Mr. Kendrick, 
as the organ of the Education Society ; and amid the fluctu- 
ations and delays incident to affairs of this nature, would 
not probably have been secured at all, but for the able and 
persevering efforts of the men to whom the business was 
intrusted. 



KEV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K ; D. D. 155 



CHAPTER XVI. 

FROM 1828—1833 INCLUSIVE. 

Influence of Revivals in the Seminary — In 1828 — In 1830-31, Embraced 
in a letter of Rev. S. B. Page — Third Marriage of Dr. Kendrick. 

In this period we must not omit to notice the influence of 
revivals of religion in promoting the prosperity of the semi- 
nary, and giving it favor in the eyes of the people. During 
the winter of 1828, several of the students were highly 
favored where they preached, with the special influences of 
the Divine Spirit upon the Churches. The seasons of more 
marked interest in the seminary, and through its agency in 
sections near and remote from it, were still later in this term 
of six years. 

The writer acknowledges his indebtedness to the Rev. S. 
B. Page, for the following sketch which embraces a valuable 
and instructive history both for ministers and churches. 

"During the summer and fall term of 1830, the state of 
religious interest was very low in the institution, and also in 
the churches generally throughout the state. Many churches 
had been severely rent by the agitation and consequent 
excitement upon the subject of " speculative Free Masonry." 
The ways of Zion mourned ; the Spirit of God was grieved 
and appeared to have withdrawn from the churches. There 
were doubless some in all the churches, whose steady piety 
and zeal manifested themselves at all times, who sighed over 
this sad condition. 

" It was during this period of declension, that a dark 
cloud came over the institution that threatened for a time the 
most disastrous results. The senior class in the theological 
department was unusually large, and embraced a more than 



156 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

ordinary amount of talent and scholarship. They were 
engaged in the investigation of questions in systematic 
theology under Dr Kendrick. When they came to the sub- 
ject of the divinity of Christ, they resolved to make thorough 
work of it, and endeavor if possible, to understand it and have 
it clearly settled if possible upon a reasonable basis, so that in 
publicly presenting the doctrine, they might be able to divest 
it, at least of some of its obscurities, and remove some of the 
formidable difficulties in which they fancied it was involved. 
The impression made upon the junior members of the school 
was, that they had determined to outstrip their predecessors 
in study, in this department of theology, and that they would 
not relinquish their investigations, until they had fathomed 
this mystery of godliness. They gave the full strength of 
their minds to the examination of the subject together, for 
days, availed themselves of all the helps within their reach, 
and being confident of success, they addressed themselves to 
the work with no common zeal, with almost irrepressible 
energy. 

" One week' passed away without attaining the wished for 
result ; their minds were still befogged ; another anxious 
week they toiled, and thought they descried a few faint 
gleams of light, but before the expiration of the third week 
the startling announcement was made, ' that they had dis- 
covered that the Lord Jesus Christ was not a divine 
personage, that though evidently superior to man, he was 
still less than God.' The whole school was petrified with 
astonishment at this report. A clap of thunder in a cloudless 
sky, or an earthquake in a serene and sunny day, could not 
have produced a more alarming shock. Students might be 
seen in larger and smaller groups upon the seminary grounds, 
expressing their unfeigned surprise and profound grief at the 
result of that prolonged investigation, which it was hoped 
would disrobe the subject of its bewildering mysteries. But 
alas ! they met with a failure. A majority of the class, it 
was rumored, had called in question the divinity of Christ, 



KEY. NATHANIEL KEXDRICK, D. D. 157 

and embraced the new view of his inferiority to the Father, 
with great confidence that it could be vindicated and main- 
tained. 

" Their good and faithful instructor was overwhelmed with 
inexpressible grief and agony of spirit. He endeavored at 
once to convince them of their egregious error. For clays 
together, scarcely any other topic was considered, for this 
was the engrossing theme of conversation both with officers 
and students. The faculty, apprehensive that these novel 
and dangerous views would be disastrous to the cause of 
religion, and fearing that they would spread like leaven in 
the minds of the students, took up the subject, and lectured 
in course, on successive evenings, to the whole body of the 
school. As the class infected with these views was under 
the immediate instruction of Dr. Kendrick, he gave the firat 
lecture in the series. It was an able and thorough discussion 
of the doctrine of Christ's divinity, and delivered in the 
doctor's most solemn and impressive manner. His treat- 
ment of the subject was satisfactory to all, except those who 
had diverged from the line of truth, and plunged rashly into 
the regions of error. 

" Professor Hascall followed in a clear, scriptural view of 
the doctrine. Then Professor Whitman unfolded the subject, 
and enforced his arguments in support of the evangelical view, 
with a soul full of emotion, and with eyes suffused with tears. 
Last in order came Professor Sears, then the youngest mem- 
ber of the faculty, but possessing rare qualifications for the 
task which he then performed. His masterly discussion of 
the theme, gave an earnest of his future eminence as a pro- 
found scholar, a writer of excellent taste, and an eloquent 
speaker. I here recall one of his many thrilling expressions 
in this memorable discourse. ' He who denies the divinity 
of Christ, will find no place to pause in his progress of error, 
till he reaches the chilling atmosphere in the polar regions of 
a dark and cheerless infidelity.' 

" These lectures served a valuable purpose, as an antidote 

U 



158 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

against the further inroads of this heresy upon the great body 
of the students. Their influence was fortifying and conserva- 
tive to all save those who had wandered from the beaten path 
of scriptural doctrine. With this number the discourses 
seemed powerless. The faculty then sent for the Rev. N. N. 
Whiting, of Yernon, who had a fair reputation as a biblical 
scholar, to argue the subject, and, if possible, convince the 
members of the class of their alarming error. Accordingly 
he came, and held an interview with the brethren. He held 
a protracted session with them, in which he prayed with them, 
conversed freely, and brought to the task the ability which 
long years of close investigation had imparted to him, besides 
his native strength, which was great. But his reasoning failed 
to convince them. The evening passed away, but their dis- 
cussions were not terminated ; these were continued through 
the watches of the night, and when the morning dawned the 
siege of labor had not ended. They were still together, hold- 
ing conflicting views upon this cardinal doctrine of the gospel. 

" On retiring from this prolonged interview with the class, 
the Rev Mr. Whiting was interrogated as to the result of his 
effort. It was a question full of anxiety, ' What success V 
1 None at all,' was the reply, 'and unless God convinces them 
of their error, all human effort will be in vain.' 

" When Dr. Kendrick met the class on that day, and ascer- 
tained that they were in the condition of a ship that through 
the force of wind, wave, and darkness, had been stranded, he 
hoped that by a cessation of further efforts, a propitious tide 
of heavenly influence might rise, and bear them once more 
into the broad ocean of infinite truth, where their freighted 
hopes could not be wrecked on perilous shoals. Accordingly 
he advised them to suspend all investigation and discussion 
of the mooted subject for the space of three weeks. To this, 
all consented, and proceeded to consider other topics in the 
theological course. Never could an advice have been more 
timely, and we cannot doubt but the human teacher, here 
sought the wisdom of the Heavenly Teacher, and obtained what 



REV. NATHANIEL KEN D RICK, D. D. 159 

he sought. For, within that brief period, a work of grace 
commenced, which, if not without a parallel in modern revi- 
vals, has seldom had its equal in this country. The work 
originated in the following manner. 

"An organization known as the students' association, ex- 
isted in the seminary, and held its meetings from time to time 
for the purpose of transacting business. It embraced the 
entire membership of the school, and had the requisite officers 
for the dispatch of business, who were chosen annually. At 
the annual meeting held about the time in which the incidents 
above related occurred, and nearly four weeks before the close 
of the term, Mr. J. L. Moore was .elected president of this 
association. He was at that time an esteemed member of the 
theological class, whose errant views had created so great a 
sensation. 

"In accepting the appointment, Mr. Moore offered a few 
remarks on the duties of the office, and then proceeded to make • 
some reflections on the low state of religious feeling in the 
institution. As he progressed in his remarks, he became 
much affected, and wept. It was soon apparent that others 
sympathized with him in his feelings. Several followed, 
making confession of their backslidden state, and expressed a 
desire to seek the Lord anew. At the hour of nine, it was 
resolved to adjourn, and invite all who were so disposed, to 
meet after an interval of half an hour, for social prayer and 
conference. A very large number assembled. The spirit of 
God was manifestly there in power. Those who were pre- 
sent, can never forget that memorable night. Confession, 
supplication, and weeping characterized that meeting, which 
was continued till three o'clock the next morning, when an 
adjournment was made to half-past seven in the morning. 
From this time until the close of the term, meetings were held 
morning after morning. So deep and general was the feeling, 
that for several days the recitation room was almost deserted, 
and in some instances recitations were discontinued. Much 
time was spent in serious self-examination and prayer. Stu- 



160 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICt, D. D. 

dents might be seen at all hours of the day and evening, 
walking to and fro, engrossed in religious conversation, and 
often retiring to the sequestered groves near by, for serious 
meditation and prayer. The levity which had been indulged 
and fostered for months before, was discountenanced, and no 
place was found for it. The change was so marked and 
obvious, that no one could fail to notice it. 

" Simultaneously with the commencement of the revival 
among the students, it was ascertained that unconverted per- 
sons in the vicinity of the seminary were awakened and 
under deep conviction for sin. Some were so powerfully 
wrought upon by the Holy Spirit, that on that signal night 
of special interest, in which many were constrained to con- 
tinue in supplication until past midnight, they sent for per- 
sons in the seminary to come and pray with them, and in a 
few days all connected with the family keeping the boarding 
'house for the accommodation of the students, embracing four 
or five in number, became hopefully pious. The work spread 
through the village and town, and in less than four weeks 
there were forty or fifty cases of conversion. Professor 
Sears, who at that time was officiating as pastor of the Bap- 
tist church in the village of Hamilton, baptized about thirty, 
if memory serves me, within three weeks. The work ex- 
tended into adjoining towns, and through the state generally. 
At the close of the fall term, the students were widely 
dispersed, seeking employment, either in teaching school or 
in supplying destitute churches, during the long winter vaca- 
tion of twelve weeks that then ensued. Wherever they went 
they were ambassadors for Christ, and the messengers of 
glad tidings'; for they went forth with warm hearts, and a 
passion to be instrumental of great good to souls, and of 
winning them to the Saviour. Nor were they disappointed ; 
for when they returned at the opening of the spring term, 
nearly, if not all, were permitted to report, with joy, that 
God had been with them and wrought by them, bearing wit- 
ness to his own word in the revival of his work and in the 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 161 

conversion of sinners In several instances those who 
engaged in teaching school saw many of their scholars con- 
verted. One of the brethren, Abner Webb, who afterwards 
became a missionary to Maulmain, rejoiced over the hopeful 
conversion of thirty of his pupils in the lapse of about three 
weeks. 

" It was during this revival that Mr. Kendrick was per- 
mitted to rejoice over the conversion of the son whose 
memoir is included in this volume. About six months before 
this extensive work of grace, he had the pleasure of adminis- 
tering the ordinance of baptism at the same time to his own 
eldest daughter, and the eldest daughter of the wife that 
now survives him. 

" That period, embracing the winter of 1831 and the follow- 
ing year, was remarkable for many powerful and extensive 
revivals in this whole region of country. These refreshing 
seasons of gracious visitation of the Holy Spirit were more 
numerous at that time than they have been since, until the 
year 1858, which stands without a parallel. 

" Before the close of the term, the appointed time for the 
postponement of further investigations upon the Divinity of 
Christ expired. The task was resumed with emotions widely 
different from those which possessed their minds when they 
suspended their inquiries. A great change had transpired in 
their own hearts, and one no less surprising all around them. 
They were encompassed by a heavenly atmosphere. The 
chilling winter had passed away, and the time of the singing 
of birds had come. The revival season had visited them, and 
the Holy Spirit, in the exercise of his sovereign prerogative, 
had taken of the things of Christ, and shown them to their 
wondering eyes. The all-important lesson had been en- 
graven upon the tablet of their hearts, the one which they 
needed so much to learn, viz., that without Christ as an all- 
sufficient Saviour they could no nothing. 

"The members of the class now met to renew their inves- 
tigations, not with overweening confidence in themselves, 

14* 



162 EEV. NATHANIEL KEN D RICK, D. D. 

leaning upon their own understanding, as those who are 
wise above what is written, but with the humility and 
docility of children, asking counsel of the Lord, and ready 
to follow the plain teachings of his word. The writer vividly 
recalls the solemn impression made on his own mind, as they 
assembled in a room near him, and again entered upon their 
examinations after a season of united and earnest prayer. 
It was a scene never to be effaced from his memory. 

" It demanded no elaborate arguments to convince them 
of their error, nor was it long before they returned to the 
old paths which they had followed in previous years. A few 
days after this happy issue of their inquiries, the students 
assembled in the same place where, a few weeks before, God 
commenced the work of revival with such power. Mr. J. 
L. Moore was the first to communicate to the body of stu- 
dents the joyful intelligence that the class had returned fully 
to the old landmarks of evangelical doctrine, and were entirely 
satisfied that the Divinity of our Saviour was the corner- 
stone of Christianity. To this he added the remark, 'that he 
thought God had left them to try their own strength, and 
learn how little they could do without the aid of his Spirit. 
Merited blindness had fallen upon them, because they had 
departed from the Lord, and become remiss in the discharge 
of duty.' Brethren Bailey, Chaffee, Bartlet, Newell, and 
others of the class, followed in the same strain of remark. 
It was a time of great rejoicing in the seminary. The words 
of the Rev. N. N. Whiting had been signally verified, 'that 
unless God brought them back, no human power could avail.' 
God brought them back, in his own time and way, and they 
have all continued steadfast and faithful, so far as we know. 
Of this number, some have fallen asleep in Jesus, and rest 
from their labors. 

" Nothing of the kind has occurred since in the history of 
the school, and it is confidently believed that no theological 
institution in the land, from that day to this, has been more 
free from all tendencies to Socinianism, or maintained a 



EEV. NATHANIEL KEN DEI OK, D.D. 163 

higher standard of piety, and been more frequently blessed 
with revival influences." 

The period which has now been described will be remem- 
bered by many who peruse these pages, as the auspicious 
one in which they were brought into the fold of Christ. 
Under this gracious effusion of the Holy Spirit, the acces- 
sions to the churches were numerous. A large number of 
young men, impelled by a sense of duty, renounced their 
plans for a secular vocation, and entertained the purpose of 
engaging in the work of the sacred ministry. During the 
year 1832, fifty were added to the membership of the school. 
This great influx of students prompted the board to devise 
more ample means for the accommodation of the newly 
admitted pupils. At the anniversary of the above named 
year, the society passed the following resolution : 

11 lie solved, That the board take immediate measures to 
erect another stone building, one hundred feet in length, of 
convenient width, and four stories high." 

In this chapter, in which we are permitted to record many 
pleasing changes affecting the welfare of Zion, we may notice 
another, pertaining to Dr. Kendrick's private relations. We 
refer to his marriage to Mrs. Mary Hascall, widow of Ralph 
Hascall, Esq., of Essex. He alludes to this event appro- 
priately in a note addressed to the eldest daughter of his 
newly wedded wife, a few days after the consummation of 
this union. 

"The late communications from your affectionate mother 
may render you more than ever desirous to hear from her 
again, that you may know more fully what vicissitudes of 
fortune are bearing her to that rest, into which your dear 
father has no doubt already entered. My acquaintance with 
her, and I have the pleasure to add, my present relation to 
her, render the favorite objects of her affections very desira- 
ble to me. Our matured and mutual designs were legally 
sanctioned by Rev. D. Hascall on the 20th inst, [November, 
1828,] in the midst of a circle of friends at Pompey. 



164 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

" Although she had extended the sphere of her usefulness 
to a small number of children, which for four years have been, 
but now cease to be motherless, yet we cherish the hope that 
her usefulness will not on this account, be diminished 
towards those whom she has nourished from infancy. I have 
the pleasure to tender you the offer of a father's house, with 
assurances that it will afford your mother and myself, mutual 
pleasure to be favored with your company in our family 
circle." 

After years abundantly sustained the high hopes expres- 
sed in this epistle, as appears from successive correspondence 
to the close of his life, and this union was not soon ruptured 
by death as the former ones had been. The devoted wife 
and mother, continued to serve him, discharging the house- 
hold duties of his home for about a score of years, and was 
with him to the last, closing his tranquil eyes in death, and 
still survives though with many infirmities of body. 



REV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K, D. D. 165 



CHAPTER XYII. 

FROM 1834—1839. 

Moneys Expended and Invested — Enla r gement — Additional Teachers 
— New Building — Boarding Hall — Manual Labor — Annual Expendi- 
tures — Debt— Expedients to remove the same — Providential Favor — 
Karen Scholarships — Tour of Townshend and Bright — The Three 
Departments fully developed — Change of Plan in the Seminary — 
Dr. Kendrick's views thereon — Testimony of Mr. Edmunds — Remark 
of Father Bennet — Co-operation of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. 

At the close of the last period, about fifty thousand dollars 
had been obtained, and applied to the expenses of the school ; 
besides upwards of twenty thousand, laid out in a farm, fac- 
tory buildings, furniture, and library. In addition to this, 
there were several available scholarships, and others that 
were expected to be available at a future day. 

The chapter to which we now introduce our readers, will 
acquaint them with successive steps of enlargement, of great 
pecuniary embarrassment, and in several respects of severe 
trial. 

Several changes occurred in the faculty of instruction. 
Although Professor Bacon, whose election has already been 
noticed, took the mathematical chair, yet it was understood 
that his appropriate professorship was intellectual and moral 
philosophy, and that the engrossing duties of this depart- 
ment would soon demand his whole time. In December 
1833, the board made choice of Prof. George W. Eaton, of 
Georgetown College, Kentucky, to fill the chair of mathema- 
tics and natural philosophy, who soon after entered upon his 
official duties. Subsequently he was called to the professor- 
ship of ecclesiastical and civil history, which he filled for 
many years ; still later he was elected to the professorship of 
biblical theology and last of all, has become the popular pre- 



166 REV. NATHANIEL EENDEICK, D. D. 

sident of the university. In the year 1834, Prof. Stephen 
W. Taylor was called to take the charge of the prepara- 
tory department. In the following year, the professorship 
in Hebrew and Biblical criticism, made vacant by the resig- 
nation of Prof. Whitman, was filled by the election of Prof. 
T. J. Conant. The enlargement of the Academic depart- 
ment required an additional teacher, and the board made 
choice of Mr. John F. Richardson, for the term of three 
years, at the expiration of which, he was made professor of 
the Latin language and literature. The extension of the 
literary course so as to embrace eight years, prevented the 
formation of a class in theology, for two years in succes- 
sion. This interval of release from official duty, suggested 
to Prof. Sears, the propriety of spending two years abroad, 
in some of the universities of Germany. With the approbation 
of the board, he accordingly devoted two years to study in 
the best schools of Germany ; upon his return, he spent only 
about six months in the seminary, when he felt it his duty to 
accept the offer of the theological chair tendered him in a 
kindred institution, at Newton, Massachusetts. Having 
resigned, he left about the first of May, 1836. After various 
unsuccessful efforts to secure a successor, in which applica- 
tion was made to the Rev. William R. Williams of New 
York, Rev. Mr. Crawley of Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Prof. 
H. B. Hackett of Brown University, the choice of the board 
at last fell upon the Rev. John S. Maginnis, who signfied his 
acceptance on the sixth of November, 1838, and immediately 
entered upon the duties of his professorship. In the year 
1836, Prof. Hascall, the first teacher in the seminary, an indefa- 
tigable laborer for its prosperity, resigned his office. Ano- 
ther temporary change was made by the absence of Prof. 
A. C. Kendrick, for nearly two years, on account of illness, 
during which time, his duties were shared by the other profes- 
sors and assistants. 

With the commencement of this term of six years the board 
were able to point the friends to a new edifice. The success 



KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 167 

attending this work was altogether beyond expectation. 
Contrary to what usually happens, the cost was nearly two 
thousand dollars less than was originally estimated, and it 
was completed in about one-half the time fixed upon for its 
construction. The edifice itself surpassing in its accommoda- 
tions the anticipations of the board, was nearly one-third 
provided for in subscriptions in the village of Hamilton ; 
three hundred and fifty dollars were subscribed by the students, 
and the whole expense was about six thousand dollars. 

There was still another enlargement made in the summer 
of 1838, in providing a boarding hall upon a more extensive 
scale, involving an expense of three thousand dollars. 

The results of manual labor from the students reached its 
maximum point in this year, amounting to eight hundred and 
seventy-four dollars and thirty-nine cents. Though consider- 
able was done in the way of improvements upon the premises, 
yet the opportunities for mechanical labor were diminished, 
and the system began in a little time to decline very sensibly, 
and at the close of 1839 it occupied but a small sphere in the 
arrangements of the seminary. 

The prosperity of the educational enterprise here may be 
estimated somewhat by the annual expenditures. At the 
close of 1833, as already noticed, these reached the sum of 
seven thousand five hundred and seven dollars and thirty-six 
cents, and in 1839 they were twenty-four thousand and 
twenty-four dollars and eighty-one cents, while the receipts 
from all sources were but eighteen thousand and eighty dol- 
lars and fifty-one cents. By a deficit, year after year, a debt 
was constantly accumulating, until in 1839 it had reached the 
sum of fourteen thousand dollars, and the entire property of the 
Education Society was inventoried at one hundred and twelve 
thousand eight hundred and sixty-five dollars and six cents. 

To provide for the current expenses, and to meet the 
indebtedness which had annually accumulated upon the so- 
ciety, required great financial skill. Among the expedients 
which were devised we notice the following : — 



168 REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 

The charges against the students were regulated more in 
accordance with actual expenses. The price of board, which 
had been furnished for ninety cents per week, was raised to 
one dollar, and the tuition in the academic department was 
changed from four to six dollars a quarter, and in the collegiate 
department from four to eight dollars a quarter. In the theo- 
logical department tuition was rendered gratuitous. To enable 
the board to do this a plan was conceived to raise, by subscrip- 
tion, the sum of fifteen hundred dollars annually for seven 
years, to apply on the salaries of the theological professors. 
The whole sum to be raised was ten thousand five hundred 
dollars, which was to be divided into one hundred and fifty 
shares, of seventy dollars each, requiring ten dollars to be 
paid on a share annually, or five dollars semi-annually. This 
was opened on the 1 6th of February, 1835, and in that and 
the following year, was nearly subscribed. 

About the same time an effort was made to raise a perma- 
nent fund of twenty thousand dollars, the interest only of 
which should be applied to meet the salaries of professors. 
It was proposed also to raise, by subscriptions, one thousand 
dollars annually, for five years, to increase the library, towards 
which liberal subscriptions were made, but without reaching 
the amount. 

At the commencement of the collegiate year of 1838, in 
addition to the above mentioned efforts, it was proposed to 
raise fifty thousand dollars, to be invested as a permanent 
fund. The lowest subscription received for this object was 
fifty dollars, and it was soon brought to fourteen thousand 
dollars. At the close of 1839 the aggregate of permanent 
subscriptions amounted to forty thousand one hundred and 
fifty dollars. 

The whole period which we now sketch was one of very 
great embarrassment in the financial affairs of the institution. 
JSTo small part of each report was turned into an earnest and 
fervid appeal for pecuniary relief. Paragraph after paragraph 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 169 

was shaped for this object. The board was fortunate in 
securing an efficient agent during this period, in the person 
of James Edmunds, Jr., the whole of the time, and others for 
a portion of the time ; still there were wants unsupplied. 

There were marked instances of favor during this interval, 
showing that a watchful and kind providence presided over 
this " school of the prophets." It may not be inappropriate 
here to mention, that within this period the late Rev. Justus 
H. Yinton, a graduate of the seminary, and an honored and 
successful missionary to the Karens, endowed a scholarship, 
providing for the payment of the interest annually until he 
paid the principal, which was done in a few years after the 
pledge was given. The donor desired that this benefaction 
should be known as the " Karen Scholarship," and that the 
name of the former should not be known to the world. It 
was to be used for the benefit of an indigent student prepar- 
ing for an eastern mission, with a specific instruction that 
the one selected to enjoy the fruits of this donation, should 
be " a young man for present action," assigning as a reason, 
" He who will not act to-day, will never act." 

We may here insert also a cheering extract, all the more 
welcome, from the shaded pages of despondency that sur- 
round it. It occurs in the Twenty-First Report, made in 
1838, as follows : 

" After the semi-annual meeting of the board in Decem- 
ber, at which time an estimate was made of what would be 
needed to sustain the institution through the year, two mein" 
bers of the board, brethren Townshend and Bright, left their 
business and went, at their own charges, to the cities of 
Albany, New York, and Brooklyn, and by special efforts 
obtained, in about four weeks, the sum of four thousand two 
hundred and eighty dollars for immediate assistance. At the 
same time, the hand of Providence was also made visible for 
relief at this crisis, by raising up another patron in the city 
of New York, Stephen B. Munn, Esq., who was brought into 
the kingdom after he was seventy years old, and who last 

15 



170 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

year made a donation of two hundred dollars to this society, 
now gave fifteen hundred dollars more. These sums, to- 
gether with the collections made by the general agent, 
enabled the treasurer to meet many of the heavy and press- 
ing demands upon the society, and at the same time to defray 
most of the current expenses for the first half year. In view 
of all this timely aid, your board had occasion to say, 
' Surely, the Lord's arm is not shortened that he cannot save, 
nor his ear heavy that he cannot hear.' He can yet supply a 
host in the wilderness ; he can yet ' cause streams to break out 
in the desert/ and cause his people 'to suck honey out of the 
rock, and oil out of the flinty rock.' This fresh proof of God's 
care for this institution, and of the hold which it has upon 
the favor of his people, was like the breaking forth of light 
in a dark place, and as cold water to a thirsty soul. When 
we contrast the present views of the denomination, on the 
subject of educating the rising ministry, with what they were 
twenty years ago, and compare the offerings which are now 
made for this object with what were made then, we are con- 
strained to say, 'Hitherto the Lord hath helped us :' 'The 
Lord hath done great things for us, whereof we are glad.' " 

There are one or two further changes which deserve notice 
before we close this chapter. The designation of the classes 
was made in the year 1834, the same as in the colleges of 
the land, and the season of the commencement exercises was 
changed from the month of June to the month of August. 
"In 1835 the first senior collegiate class completed its course 
of studies. In 1837-8, for the first time, the three depart- 
ments, viz., theological, collegiate and academic, were fully 
developed, the complement of classes organized, the English 
and scientific departments harmonized with the classical, two 
distinct theological courses established, the one adapted to 
the qualifications of students for the English and scientific 
course, and the other to those who had completed the full 
six years' course of regular classical studies." 

In the last year of the period under examination, a change 



KEY. NATHANIEL K E N D E I C K, I). D. 171 

of policy was adopted by the board. Up to this year none 
had been permitted to share the benefits of the institution 
save those who had the ministry in view. In the judgment 
of the board, the time had arrived to effect a change, and 
their convictions were set forth in a resolution contained in 
their report to the society, as follows : 

" Resolved, That the great object which this society is 
seeking to attain, will be promoted by allowing the faculty, 
for the time being, to receive into the collegiate department 
of the Hamilton Literary and Theological Institution, a lim- 
ited number of young men, who have not the ministry in 
view. " 

The number was in no case to exceed the whole number of 
those preparing for the ministry in the several departments 
of the institution. 

The rights and privileges of candidates for the ministry 
were carefully guarded, so that in no way, could these be 
abridged in the least by the change. 

This was a measure which Mr. Kendrick did not advocate. 
Indeed, he took strong and decided ground against it. His 
favorite and long cherished idea was that of an institution 
devoted exclusively to preparation for the ministry. From 
the reports, it will be seen that the separation of young men 
into a company by themselves, who were entertaining the same 
aims, devising similar plans, and looking to the sacred calling 
as their chosen vocation for life, was regarded as having a 
benign and sanctifying influence upon their hearts. Great 
stress was laid upon this, and the institution presented 
unequalled claims upon the ground that its students from 
the early stages to the completion of their course, were freed 
from many temptations on this account, to which the mem- 
bers of a college community were constantly exposed. 

To render justice to the views which Mr. Kendrick enter- 
tained, we may here give place to his report, in which he 
dissents from the ground taken by the members of the 
committee associated with him. 



172 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

" The subscriber being appointed on a committee to take 
into consideration the propriety of opening the Collegiate 
Department of the Hamilton Literary and Theological Insti- 
tuion to young men not having the ministry in view, and 
report to the board at their meeting in August, not being 
able to conform his opinion to the views of the rest of the 
committee on the subject has taken the liberty with deference 
to the judgment of his brethren, to state in a separate report 
some of the reasons which have weight in his own mind for 
thinking it would be inexpedient to make the proposed 
change. 

" 1st. The society in its organization contemplated no 
such provision. The exclusive object which it had in view, 
was the education of young men for the ministry. All the 
funds of the society amounting to upwards of eighty thou- 
sand dollars have been obtained upon the specified condition, 
that the institution was to admit none but those who were 
approved by the churches for the Christian ministry. 

" 2d. If it can be extended to other young men without 
jeopardizing the funds, there are other considerations, of more 
vital importance to its character and prosperity, to be taken 
into account. 

" 1st. It will combine young men. preparing for the ministry 
in the same class with those, not only having different pro- 
fessions in view, but having no piety, nor respect for the 
gospel of Christ. 

" Can our ordinary young men, preparing for the ministry, 
in the incipient state of their piety, before their religious 
habits are formed, become companions of prayerless and 
unbelieving youth, to room and study, and lodge with them 
for a term of years, and not be retarded in the cultivation of 
their Christian graces ? Under special excitements, they may 
for a time be more guarded and watchful, and keep their mouths 
with a bridle, while the wicked are before them, but will this 
be the uniform effects of such companionship ? The facts of 
the case speak a different language. 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 173 

" The circumstances and relations of students are of a 
peculiar character. At this period, they are forming their 
manners and modes of thinking and acting, and fixing their 
habits for life. All this is done in a great measure by imi- 
tation. The youthful mind, with little experience, and great 
ardor of feeling, feels the influence of its associations more 
deeply than is realized at any other period of life. Will the 
conversation, and spirit, and example of young men in a 
state of sin, benefit those who have just entered upon a life 
of religion, with all the infirmities that belong to the unsancti- 
fied nature of a young disciple ? It is presumed not. 

" It must affect their religous devotions in their rooms, 
morning and evening — it must affect the social spirit of their 
classes. They are no longer of one heart and one mind, 
striving together for the faith of the gospel — it must affect 
the freedom of all their associations. 

" 2d. This change will render the government of the 
institution more difficult and burdensome. It will be liable 
to produce jealousies and collisions among the students ; and 
a few unprincipled young men may occasion a great deal of 
discord and strife. Unless they are dealt with in mildness 
and patience, they will raise an evil report against the govern- 
ment, much pains should be taken with untoward young men 
to reclaim them, before they are rejected as irreclaimable. 
To carry out such a discipline in every case which would be 
liable to occur, would require much time and labor. 

" 3d. Some modification in the course of study on their 
account, would be unavoidable. They would need to spend 
more time in the mathematics, and less in the Hebrew than is 
assigned to the students of the institution now. They 
should not be subjected to the expense of purchasing all the 
Hebrew books used in our collegiate course, nor spend as 
much time in the study of that language, as is necessary for 
theological students. These are some of the evils that might 
naturally be expected to follow from the change imposed. 
" It would be liable to impair the confidence of the churches, 
15* 



174 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRIOK, D. D. 

in the character of the institution, and in due time to with- 
draw their patronage. Its character now is simple, its object 
is one, and easily understood. As soon as it is opened for 
young men having other objects in view than that of the min- 
istry, its character is complex, and other objects are introduced, 
although it may be said they are subordinate to the ultimate 
object. If it should not be viewed in this light by the Chris- 
tian community, they would regard it as another thing from 
its original organization. 

" If the change should be made to increase the revenue of 
the institution, by bringing in a number of students who 
should pay their expenses, it would induce the churches to 
leave it to this source of support and they would be likely to 
withhold a greater amount of patronage than could be ob- 
tained from this class of students. 

" The number of pious young men preparing for the min- 
istry would be likely to be less in the collegiate department, 
if the proposed change should be made, as they would have 
less inducements to come here from other states, for their 
collegiate course, than they have now. While it stands out 
before the world in its present character, consecrated in all 
its departments to ministerial education, it has attractions for 
this class of young men, that it could not have under any 
other circumstances. 

" The change proposed holds out the encouragement that 
the teachers will receive much more of their salary from tui- 
tion than they would otherwise, and this will be urged by 
many as a reason against raising the sum proposed, for a 
permanent fund. 

" It has succeeded in its simple character in promoting its 
undivided object beyond any other theological institution 
known in the denomination, and drawn together a greater 
number of students, than is to be found of the same faith, at 
any other institution on the face of the earth. 

" The peculiar character and object and oneness of the 
institution, have been regarded by its managers and patrons 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 175 

as contributing in no small degree to its progress, in the 
extension of its influence and benefits over the denomination 
and over the world. 

" We have much evidence of the controlling influence of 
Providence, in raising up and moulding and maturing this 
institution, and do we see anything in the indications of pro- 
vidence, requiring the change ? Are the prospects of sup- 
porting the institution in its present form in any degree di- 
minished from what they were at any former period ? On the 
other hand, have we not more ground for encouragement than 
we have had in previous years ? Are not the churches doing 
more now to sustain it than they have done formerly, and 
have we not a wider field open to us from which to secure 
students for the ministry than ever before ? Three institu- 
tions got up in New Jersey and Pennsylvania for ministerial 
education, have been relinquished, and the churches in those 
states have turned their attention to this. 

" Will it hold out the same advantages to those states, if 
we fill up the collegiate department with young men not pre- 
paring for the ministry ? 

" If the institution should be opened as proposed, and all 
the rooms in the public buildings should be filled up in the 
course of a little time ; those not preparing for the ministry 
could not be dismissed, nor turned out of their rooms, to 
make way for others who are candidates for the ministry, and 
might apply for admission. We would not be able for years 
to erect another building, and to require them to room out 
would subject them to no inconsiderable embarrassment. 

" Candidates for the ministry are yearly increasing, and 
few, now think of entering upon the work without an educa- 
tion, and if all of this class should be accommodated, who 
would be likely to apply from this and the neighboring states, 
but, few, at most, of other classes could be received ; and, 
while the institution should pretend to provide for the public 
wants on this subject, it could do but a mere trifle towards it. 

" The institution in its present character is of that import- 



176 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

ance to the cause of God that no change should be made in 
it without important reasons, nor without satisfactory evi- 
dence that the legitimate tendency of the change will be to 
improve it. 

" Can it be shown that the institution will be improved by 
the proposed measure ? If the increase of the funds is the 
only benefit anticipated by the measure will it be sound 
policy to adopt it ? If it should bring in a few hundred 
dollars annually it might prevent a greater amount from 
being given by the churches. 

"NATH. KENDRICK. 

" Aug. 20th, 1839." 

We may here introduce the language of one who was, for 
many years, a co-laborer with him, we refer to James 
Edmunds, Jr. 

"Dr. Kendrick was indefatigable in advocating what he 
deemed to be right, but he always respected the voice of the 
majority of his brethren when a decision was arrived at after 
full discussion and prayer for divine guidance. His favorite 
policy had been to have the Hamilton Seminary a sacred 
retreat, where pious young men, far from the influences of 
the ungodly, might prosecute their studies unmolested. But 
after the course of study had been extended to a full colle- 
giate term, the question of admitting others than candidates 
for the ministry came to be entertained. The doctor opposed 
it with all his powers. A debate ensued when the final 
question was brought before the board. For the first time I 
found myself opposed to him, and that on a course of policy 
which he deemed vital. We debated with great earnestness 
till after midnight. He stood alone, but struggled like a 
giant against us all. From his manner one would suppose 
he would have left in despair, and given up the institution to 
its fate if out-voted. The vote was taken. Pie, alone, voted 
in the negative. He arose and said, ' Brethren I have used 
every means in my power to prevent this, but after hearing 



KEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 177 

all my arguments you have decided contrary to my judgment. 
I shall now cordially do all I can with you to make this new 
policy succeed. I fear it will not, but you shall have my 
hearty co-operation in giving it a fair trial.' " 

It is now apparent to any one who consults the reports 
which were made during the years in which progressive 
changes were made, that the allusions to them are in an 
apologetic strain, pleading in justification of them, an impera- 
tive necessity which the wants of the churches distinctly 
revealed. Father Bennet said, upon one of the anniversary 
occasions of the institution, " I was among those, in the 
commencement of this institution, who honestly doubted the 
propriety of the measure ; and not until the fruit, by the 
blessing of God, appeared, to give it character, did my heart 
yield cordially to its support." 

If such concessions were made by one so uniformly ready 
to lend support to every good enterprise, it should not sur- 
prise us that Mr. Kendrick looked with serious misgivings 
upon a change, so marked, in the policy of the seminary, as 
to make it accessible to students not having the ministry in 
view, and to those not professing godliness. 

Before the termination of the period embraced in this 
chapter, the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania had 
turned their attention to Hamilton, as the most favorable 
seat of learning for such of their young men as were looking 
forward to the ministry. The churches in these states having 
relinquished the Haddington, Holmesburg, and Burlington 
institutions provided for ministerial education, could, with 
greater convenience to themselves, patronize a school better 
provided for, and well officered with teachers. 



178 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 



CHAPTER XYIII. 

FROM 1840—1848. 

Other Changes— Dr. Kendrick's views thereon — Popularity of the New 
Measures — Library — Philosophical Apparatus — Aid from Female 
Education Societies — Scholarships in Albany — Sum Total-Need of 
Aid — Hindrances — Floating Debt — Liquidation — Growing Field — 
Changes in Faculty — Decease of Early Patrons — Revivals — Summary 
of Labors — Closing Year of Dr. Kendrick's Labors — The Removal 
Question — Concluding Remarks. 

The new measure which had been inaugurated in 1839 
prepared the way for still other changes in the management 
of the institution. Since the school was now open for any 
that aspired to a collegiate education, it was deemed proper 
to seek legislative patronage. The first application, how- 
ever, was unsuccessful, upon the ground that it was not yet 
an incorporated college. The removal of this objection by 
an act of incorporation was sought in the same year, (1840,) 
but did not meet with success until March 26th, 1846. Mr. 
Kendrick, entertaining serious fears lest this might be the 
procuring cause of less dependence upon the churches, was 
personally opposed to the measure. He apprehended, no 
doubt, that there would be less responsibility felt in sus- 
taining the institution in future, and that it would not be the 
same cherished instrumentality for preparing a sanctified and 
qualified ministry, as in its earlier history. Here, as on a 
former occasion, he found his own judgment overruled by 
the views of the board ; and in the supposed effects of such 
incorporation, which we insert in this connection in his own 
language, it is a mark of his foresight that he anticipated the 
question of removal, which afterwards became so absorbing. 

The effects of incorporation, in numerical order, bear the 
date of 1841. We here insert them in his own words : 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 179 

"1st. The collegiate department must be separated from 
the other two, and placed under a separate board. 

" 2d. The course of study in the college can no longer be 
modified with reference to the education of young men for 
the ministry. 

" 3d. The college must have a president, and be placed 
under a separate government. 

" 4th. The college must be rendered independent of the 
Baptist Education Society; endowed with separate funds; 
and placed under the supervision of the regents of the state. 

" 5th. It would hold out no more inducements to candi- 
dates for the ministry from other states than other colleges 
under the management of Baptist professors. 

" 6th. If the candidates for the ministry belonging to the 
denomination throughout the state should resort to it for 
their collegiate education, it would not be sufficient to accom- 
modate all others connected with the denomination through- 
out the state, who ought to be liberally educated. 

" Tth. If the collegiate department should thus be sepa- 
rated for a college for the denomination in the state, is 
Hamilton the best location for it ? 

" 8th. Would not such a measure jeopardize the institu- 
tion, which was designed to provide for the entire course of 
ministerial education; which has thus far been signalized by 
the favor of Divine Providence, and in its present form 
obtained the favor of the churches and the community far 
beyond what was at first expected ? 

" 9th. Can we ask for more unequivocal evidence that this 
provision for ministerial education is approved by the Great 
Head of the Church ? And have we any reason to doubt 
the future success of the same system, strictly adhered to ? 
What is there to prevent the enlargement of the institution 
for twenty years to come, if it should be conducted on the 
original plan, in the same ratio that it has been enlarged for 
the last twenty years ? 

" 10th. Is not Messiah's kingdom rapidly increasing, and 



180 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 

will not the ministry be proportionally increased? and shall 
we ever want for members ?" 

The board, however, entertained the opinion that the 
enlarged operations of the school would not render it less, 
but rather more effective for the purposes of ministerial 
education. While its growing expenditures demanded a cor- 
responding increase of funds, it seemed necessary to obtain 
new sources of patronage. Performing the functions of a 
college, its friends regarded it equally deserving of state 
patronage with those schools of the same grade that had 
already enjoyed this boon. 

The change which had taken place in the school, did not 
diminish the interest which Mr. Kendrick had hitherto 
cherished. His daughter, in a playful allusion to the matter, 
remarked to her brother, "you have probably learned that the 
institution is chartered under the name of Madison University. 
Father takes it with the spirit of a martyr, and prays none 
the less fervently for its continued prosperity." 

In the year 1844, an arrangement was made with the trus- 
tees of Columbian College, whereby, upon application, those 
classical students who had completed a full course of collegiate 
studies could, upon due recommendation from the faculty, re- 
ceive the degree of Bachelor of Arts. 

The public favor with which the change of 1839 was re- 
ceived, foreshadowed a career of prosperity to the seminary 
beyond its former history. Satisfactory data for this were 
furnished by the increased number of students, by the libe- 
rality shown in endeavoring to liquidate its indebtedness, and 
by the extending field of its patronage. The list of students 
reached its maximum point in 1842, the published catalogue 
showing the number two hundred and thirty-nine. In the 
following year, the academic department was thrown open as 
the collegiate was in 1839 ; and it received the largest acces- 
sion of students in the next year that it ever had, reaching 
eighty-four. During this whole period of eight years, the. 
admissions to the institutions were numerous, but the want 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 181 

of funds compelled many, though with much reluctance, to 
sever their connection with it. 

The library, during* the same period, received greater atten- 
tion than ever before. It was materially improved by the 
purchases made when Professor Sears was in G-ermany. 
Another valuable addition was made during Professor Co- 
nant's residence in the same country in 1841 and '42. Through 
the agency of the librarian, Professor A. C. Kendrick, quite 
generous contributions were secured, so that the catalogue 
of works was increased to between four and five thousand 
volumes. 

The philosophical apparatus, also, which had been for some 
years used by the generosity of the Hon. John B. Yates, of 
Chittenango, upon loan, was superseded by the purchase of 
a new one. This was done under the direction of Professor 
Taylor, then principal of the mathematical department, to 
whose energy and perseverance the enterprise was due. The 
work was accomplished during the years 1841-2. The sub- 
scriptions were raised in part in Hamilton and neighboring 
villages, in the Pearl Street Baptist Church in Albany, in the 
First Baptist Church in Troy, and^ by some generous indi- 
viduals in New York and Philadelphia. 

In providing for the pecuniary wants of the school, while 
much was due to the efficient aid of able and prudent men in 
the capacity of agents, we must not omit to mention another 
instrumentality of an organized and voluntary character. Re- 
ference is now made to female education societies. Promi- 
nent among this class of agencies, we may notice those formed 
in New York and Brooklyn, which existed for many years, 
and those in Philadelphia and New Brunswick, not to name 
others of less notoriety, though perhaps of equal usefulness 
in proportion to their resources. In the report of 1841, it is 
noticed, that within five years not less than ten thousand 
dollars were received from female benevolent associations 
alone. The Young Men's Education Society in the cities of 
New York and Brooklyn, deserves to be mentioned in this 

16 



182 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 

connection, as they sustained large numbers of beneficiaries 
in the advanced stages of their education. 

In the year 1840, seven and a half scholarships were ob- 
tained in Pearl Street Baptist Church, Albany, through the 
agency of the pastor, Dr. Welch, and the Rev. Jacob Knapp, 
who was conducting a series of revival meetings in the above 
named church. The most of these pledges were secured 
while the work of grace was in progress in the city. Tempo- 
rary scholarships were also obtained during the year 1844, in 
the city of Philadelphia, to the number of twenty-four. From 
the Thirty-First Report, which was made but a few weeks be- 
fore Mr. Kendrick's death, we learn that forty-six scholarships 
of one thousand dollars each, had been obtained upon subscrip- 
tions, of which twenty-three had been paid and used by the 
Education Society, two had been invested elsewhere, nine had 
not been paid, but were available, six were not available, but 
were supposed to be well secured, and six had totally failed ; 
leaving thirty-one capable of supporting beneficiaries. 

But all the sources of supply were inadequate to the press- 
ing demands of the institution. Had the scholarships been 
quadrupled they would no more than have met the numerous 
applications for deserving aid. The following paragraph from 
one of Mr. Kendrick's letters, gives no fancy sketch, but a 
picture that was of frequent occurrence. The letter bears 
date October 15th, 1845 : 

" Our school is to open to-morrow. The students are flock- 
ing in. I have seen a number of new faces ; they come with 
hearts full of hope, that we have help in the treasury for them, 
but, alas ! we are in the midst of emptiness. We have no 
funds to purchase provisions, nor to pay our faculty, nor to 
discharge our notes in bank. Some of our agents are leaving 
the field, and others are doing but little. We look to Him 
who hears the cry of the ravens, and can give bread in the 
wilderness. The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof. 
He demands prayer and effort of his people, and deals out his 



REV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K, D. D. 183 

mercies to them as his own wisdom dictates. We trust the 
work will go on notwithstanding." 

In addition to these hindrances to the work of the institu- 
tion, it encountered to some extent opposition from various 
causes. Sometimes on the ground of the alleged or fancied 
conservatism of its faculty upon the exciting questions of the 
day, and then again prejudices would arise from the impru- 
dence of some of its pupils, who had either shared too spa- 
ringly the advantages of this school, or who had been fur- 
nished by the churches whence they came, with credentials 
which they never merited. The cry of improvident expen- 
diture was not without its influence in limiting the resources 
of the treasury ; in fine, nameless causes were at work to 
retrench receipts. 

To satisfy the patrons of the school, and those who might 
be withholding from it the merited tribute of their benefac- 
tions, that the fiscal affairs of the Education Society were 
conducted upon the strictest economy, a large, able, and dis- 
criminating committee was appointed in 1844, to ascertain 
the best method of conducting and sustaining the institution. 
The report of this committee fully justified the manner in 
which the society's funds had been expended. This service 
was discharged with the hope that the claims of the society 
might be placed more distinctly before the churches than had 
previously been done. 

Notwithstanding the adoption of the most stringent mea- 
sures in the outlay of means, yet for many years the receipts 
into the treasury were constantly falling behind, until, in 
1841, there was a floating debt of twenty thousand dollars. 
To liquidate this indebtedness, a plan was proposed to raise 
by subscription, within the limits of the State of New York, 
the above sum in shares of not less than twenty-five dollars 
each, and no subscription to be valid unless the whole amount 
was subscribed. Agents were sent abroad to canvass the 
whole field and make personal solicitations. In a little more 
than a year's time the sum was secured in what was deemed 



18-i REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D,D. 

good and reliable pledges. But this expedient did not remove 
the burden of debt entirely, since the current expenses of the 
school were about fourteen thousand dollars per year. The 
liberal expression, however, in behalf of the school, was 
deemed of very great value, especially as it was made in a 
time of great financial embarrassment in the country. 

There was now a widely extended field for the operations 
of the seminary. In the autumn of 1841, the State Conven- 
tion of Michigan resolved to become auxiliary to the New 
York Baptist Education Society. New Jersey and Pennsyl- 
vania still continued to support the school, though after the 
year 1846 the latter was, to some extent, necessarily with- 
drawn, by the establishment of its own institution at Lewis- 
burg. 

A few changes transpired in the faculty of instruction. In 
1840 John H. Raymond was elected professor of rhetoric and 
the English language. In 1842 Bev. P. B. Spear was ap- 
pointed adjunct professor of the Hebrew language. In 1845 
Professor Taylor resigned his seat in the institution. But 
little of Mr. Kendrick's time in this period of eight years was 
occupied in the direct duties of his professorship. The labors 
of this department having been thrown upon the theological 
professor in the full course, his time was almost wholly en- 
grossed in the duties of corresponding secretary. These he 
continued to discharge until declining strength induced him 
to offer his resignation. This occurred in the early part of 
the summer of 1846. 

To his letter to the board the following reply was made : — - 

"Rev. K Kendrick, D.D. 

" Dear Brother : — The board have received your commu- 
nication of this date, in which you tender a resignation of your 
office as corresponding secretary. After giving the subject 
our mature consideration, we are of the opinion that the 
interests of the society would not warrant us in accepting 
that resignation at the present time. It is the unanimous 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 185 

wish of the board that you should retain the relation which 
you have hitherto held to them, and that you give to this im- 
portant service as much (and no more) of your bodily and 
mental energies, as may be perfectly compatible with the 
state of your health. 

" Permit us at the same time, dear brother, to express to 
you our deep fraternal sympathies in the afflictions with 
which it has pleased our Heavenly Father to visit you, and to 
assure you of our earnest and united prayers, that (if con- 
sistent with His holy will,) it may be speedly removed, and, 
at all events, may be made the means of promoting your own 
spiritual prosperity, and the cause and kingdom of our Lord 
Jesus Christ. 

" In behalf of the Board, 

" Your affectionate brother in Christ, 
" S. B. BURCHARD, Prest. 
"JOS. TREVOR, Re&d SecVry. 

11 Hamilton, 11th June, 1846." 

In the following year, the board re-appointed him, and also 
appointed the Rev. Zenas Freeman, (who had served six 
years in the agency of the Society,) an Assistant Secretary, 
with the understanding, that he would be expected to perform 
the chief labors of this department. 

The interval over which we now glance imperfectly, was 
marked as the harvest scene in which several of the early and 
liberal patrons of the seminary were gathered home, each one 
" in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in his season." 
In this list of departed ones, whose works praise them, we 
may mention the Paynes, both Samuel and Elisha, Deacons 
Jonathan Olmsted and Jabez Burchard, all of Hamilton, 
Deacons Joshua Gilbert of New York City, Barak Beckwith 
of Cazenovia, Elder Jedediah Randall of Norwich Village, 
and Major Amos Smith of Schuyler. Some of these gave 
scholarships, and others their annual benefactions, and of all 
it may be said, their " record is on high." 

16* 



186 EEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

~No long period has been known since the origin of the 
seminary, in which either it, or the Baptist Church in the 
village has not been favored with a revival. If either one 
enjoyed such a season, it was almost certain to be communi- 
cated to the other. In the fall term of 1845, there was a 
church organized in the seminary which contemplated the 
direct spiritual welfare of the college community. This was 
done in accordance with a recommendation of the board. In 
the winter ensuing, a work of grace commenced in the village 
which extended to the seminary, and as the blessed fruits of 
this visitation, nine of the students were admitted by baptism 
to church fellowship. Again in the winter and spring of 
1848, there was an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, in which 
both the citizens of the village, and the students shared 
bountifully. In the lapse of five weeks, some seventy were 
supposed in the judgment of charity to be converted, and 
some eight or ten of the students were hopefully rejoicing in 
the reception of a new life. In this and similar accounts of 
revivals in this school, it must be borne in mind, that a large 
majority have, since the change of 1839 been pious, so that 
conversions to the number of a half a score, would be the 
index of a powerful work of grace. 

Were we to attempt to give a summary of labors of what 
has been achieved by this educational enterprise, it would be 
utterly impossible to arrive at any thing like a satisfactory 
estimate. As to the amount of good done, we cannot 
approximately reach the results. In the last report, during 
Mr. Kendrick's secretaryship, and when, from extreme feeble- 
ness, he was aided by his assistant, we have a statement 
which, while it does not pretend to strict accuracy, yet 
serves as a guiding index. " Over one thousand have gone 
forth from its bosom, to publish the gospel with various 
degrees of preparation." 

In answer to a circular that was sent out in the year 
1844 or 1845, requesting the Alumni to give an account of 
their labors, twenty-two responded in a short time, embracing 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 187 

in that number some among the earlier, and some among the 
later graduates. In these few returns, there were accounts 
of fifty-nine revivals of religion under their ministry, and 
three thousand three hundred and fifty-four additions by 
baptism, to the churches that had enjoyed their labors. If 
these answers were to be taken as a sample of those which 
would have been received had all responded to the circular, 
then would the aggregate result have been over a hundred 
and fifty thousand baptisms, and over twenty-seven hundred 
revivals. It is farther noticed of the Alumni, "between five 
and six hundred are pastors in our own country, and many 
of them are successfully filling the most commanding posts 
of usefulness in the denomination. A large number have 
gone to the Great West and not a few have become most 
efficient pioneers in planting there churches among the desti- 
tute, and in seeking out and occupying important positions. 
And nearly. every American Baptist missionary station in 
foreign lands, has now, or has had the representatives of this 
institution." 

The last year of Mr. Kendrick's connection with the uni- 
versity was one of intense anxiety. This was occasioned by 
the agitation of the question of its removal to the city of 
Rochester. It does not devolve upon us to enter upon these 
pages the complete history of that movement, since only one 
of the three years covered by the controversy transpired in 
his closing days. Moreover, it has already been presented 
to the public, in animated discussions in newspaper columns, 
pamphlets, and reports of greater or less extent. The im- 
mediate result of this protracted agitation was such as inevi- 
tably to cloud, for the time, the prospects of the school ; nay 
more, to threaten its destruction. The permanent effect, how- 
ever, has been to create a much more salutary and widely 
extended interest in the cause of collegiate and theological 
education in the Baptist denomination, not only in the single 
state in which the discussion originated, but throughout this 



188 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

confederacy of states, and penetrating also the provinces of 
Canada. 

It is now conceded that Madison University, with which 
Mr. Kendrick was so long identified, is established upon a far 
better basis than ever before ; while, within a few years, in 
the enterprising city of Rochester, another institution has 
arisen, kindred in its character and object, of rapid growth, 
and decided promise. 

It came within the province of our venerated father to 
labor only under the auspices of the first of the three com- 
promise schemes, known as the " Removal Act," which passed 
the legislature, April 3d, 1848. Those familiar with the 
provisions of this compromise, will recollect that a prominent 
feature embraced in it, was the raising of fifty thousand dol- 
lars as a condition of retaining the university at Hamilton. 
In the effort made to secure this sum Mr. Kendrick took an 
active and decided part. He wielded his pen up to the last 
moment of the specified time in which it was to be raised. 
His anxiety was intense. 

Writing to a friend about a week before the term had ex- 
pired, he says : 

" Our present position on the removal question is a very 
precarious one. Our citizens met last evening, and found 
we had about thirty thousand dollars subscribed. They re- 
solved to make an effort to raise five thousand dollars by the 
meeting of the board next Thursday, (August 10th,) and to 
obtain fifty individuals to give bonds for the balance, fifteen 
thousand dollars, to be raised hereafter. Never were we 
called to so great an effort, to save an invaluable and loved 
institution. May it please God to preserve it from the dis- 
astrous effects of a removal." 

Referring to the action of the board deciding for removal, 
he expresses alike his fears and his confidence in the final 
issue : 

" We, however, did not succeed in raising the sum re- 
quired. Our time was short, and we had so many embar- 



REV. NATHANIEL KEN D RICK, D. P. 189 

rassroents to encounter, that our subscription for endowment 
hardly amounted to thirty thousand dollars. Our citizens 
offered bonds for the balance, but it was too late for accept- 
ance. The resolution was passed to remove the university 
to the city of Rochester, provided there should be no legal 
objection to prevent. A committee was appointed on that 
subject, and there the matter stands. I have my fears that 
the education of our ministry will be greatly curtailed by the 
movement, but I hope not. God will overrule and make all 
things subservient to his own glory. 

"If it should be found that our institution cannot legally 
be removed, it will remain here, and in that case it will de- 
volve on us to complete the endowment. I think this move- 
ment is a great embarrassment on the institution, let the case 
turn as it will. We have the consolation to think that the 
devices of men cannot effect the stability of the Saviour's 
kingdom, nor impede its progress, as a whole. It will be 
consummated in due time, and the mystery of God will be 
finished." 

We must here take leave of Mr. Kendrick's labors with 
the seminary, to speak of him in other aspects in which it 
is befitting that we should survey his character. Having de- 
voted thirty years of his life, the matured and most valuable 
part of his existence, to the prosperity of this seat of science 
and sacred learning, it is not strange that he loved it with no 
ordinary affection. ]S"o marvel is it, that he took pleasure in 
the stones of those venerable structures, whose walls, before 
he departed, had echoed the prayers of more than a thousand 
heralds of salvation, who were attracted thither to prepare 
for their work. It is not enigmatical to us, that in the event 
of the removal of the institution from the long favored spot 
of its nativity, he should have anticipated direful conse- 
quences. But even in this, as in all other momentous 
measures, he was willing to hold his own judgment in abey- 
ance until all the prospective advantages of the change had 
been distinctly set before him. He sought counsel of many 



190 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

and distinguished leaders in Zion. He prayed and toiled 
long for light, and when at length the tendencies of many 
brethren were leaning towards a new and western location, 
and the action of the board was conditionally taken in favor 
of the removal, it put his faith to a severe trial ; yet he 
could not doubt that God, who had cared for the child of so 
many prayers, and whose ever watchful providence had nur- 
tured it in the midst of many adversities, would still extend 
his arm for its preservation. It was the Master's pleasure 
to close the eyes of his venerable servant in the midst of 
these darkening scenes, and welcome him to the beatific 
visions of Heaven. The faith of this godly man is now 
greatly enhanced in our estimation, because, Abraham like, 
he trusted in the happy issue of the most dark and oppressive 
providences. 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 191 



CHAPTER XIX. 

Doctrinal Views — Doctrines Modified — Causes of Corruption — Land- 
marks of Calvinism Defined by Edwards — Influences Adverse to 
Sound Doctrine — Total Depravity — Infidelity in Yale College — Pro- 
moters of Revivals— Influence of Revivals upon Doctrines — Dr. 
Kendrick's Partiality for the Strong Doctrines — Views of Dr. Em- 
mons — Dr. Kendrick's Dissent — Total Depravity — Regeneration — 
Sovereignty of God — Election — God's Ultimate End — Atonement. 

Called to chronicle the life of one who for about a quarter 
of a century filled a professorship in divinity, it is due to our 
readers, as well as to the departed, to indicate his theological 
views. This task cannot now be done by writing a single 
word, since changes and modifications in Christian doctrine 
impeach the claims that are put forth to this or that name, 
under which parties in theology often rally. It may have 
been sufficient at some periods of the Christian church, to say 
of this or that man, he was a Calvinist, or an Arminian, and 
the description was definite, but now the term Calvinist would 
still leave us in the dark. Since the Pilgrim Fathers disem- 
barked from the Mayflower, various germs of doctrine have 
been deposited in New England soil, which have brought to 
maturity a many-colored harvest. 

It is neither the time, nor the place, to enter into a minute 
history of the changes of Christian doctrine, of the steps, or 
events, that seem to have precipitated those changes, since 
our shores became the refuge for the persecuted. Suffice it 
to say that causes were early at work which, in the process of 
years, produced their effects, like the rivulets rising in the 
mountain gorges, and receiving in their course successive 
tributaries, until with swelling and resistless current they 
make their pathway to the ocean, so, in the progress of 



192 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

Christian doctrine, one error receiving the support of another, 
a tide of irreligion has swept over the land, and the churches 
have more or less felt the disastrous consequences. 

Wrong measures, though designed to protect the Christian 
church, corrupted its doctrines, and weakened its power. The 
restriction of the right of suffrage in the state to church mem- 
bers, the adoption of the half-way covenant, the toleration of 
an unconverted ministry, the observance of the Lord's Supper, 
as one of the appointed means of regeneration, may be men- 
tioned as causes operating injuriously upon the doctrines of 
the churches. These were long continued in their working 
before the powerful check introduced by the great awakening 
in 1140. 

The landmarks of decided Calvinism, were reared by Ed- 
wards about the middle of the eighteenth century, in his trea- 
ties on the "Freedom of the Will," and in his work on 
" Original Sin." But these were insufficient to suppress the 
tide of error that had overspread the land. They wrought 
unquestionably a wholesome restraint, but could not extirpate 
heresy. 

Although there were many things favorable to the growth 
of sound doctrine in the last half of the eighteenth century, 
there were more that were unpropitious. Full one half of 
that period was a consuming season, either of war or political 
struggle. We need not pause to indicate how perilous is war 
to the institutions of religion, though prosecuted on the ground 
of self-defense, and a laudable thirst for liberty ; yet, when 
the tide of battle turned in favor of the American arms, it was 
an hour of greater peril, religiously, than ever before. For, 
in addition to that depravation of public morals which inevi- 
tably follows upon a long war, the leaven of French infidelity 
cast into our bosom, the irregularities of public worship which 
spring from vacating pulpits, turning churches into barracks, 
and secularizing the ministry, we had to encounter the scarcely 
inferior perils of victory's triumph. A people weak in re- 
resources, and few in numbers, had coped successfully with 



REV. NATHANIEL KEN DEI CK, D. D. 193 

an enemy that in discipline, valor, and resources, stood among 
the great powers of the world. To the other hindrances to 
religious progress would be added the influence of national 
pride. The people, who should have been dissolved in thanks- 
giving, too generally forgot the God of their fathers. " The 
holy principles of the pilgrims were regarded as but the in- 
fant dress of the new republic, too tight and contracted for 
their free descendants ; and in the pride of their hearts, many 
were ready to say of the religious system of their fathers, 
their strictness, and purity, "It is time to put away childish 
things." 

From various sources the evidence may be gathered that 
there was a growing disbelief in the doctrines of total 
depravity, and the divinity of Christ, and the Bible was dis- 
credited by leading minds through the prevalence of the 
infidel philosophy of France. The state of things in one of 
the oldest colleges of New England may be regarded as an 
index of the spirit that was fostered to an alarming extent in 
our country. Several of the students of the senior class of 
Yale College assumed the names of the principal English and 
French infidels, and were more familiarly known by them 
than by their own. 

It is pleasing to know that God did not leave his cause 
without friends. Xear the close of the last century, and the 
beginning of the present, he raised up noble champions for 
the gospel, and promoters of revivals. TVe may mention the 
names of Stillman, Baldwin and Gano, in our own denomina- 
tion, and Dwight, Strong, Bobbins, Griffin and the Hallocks, 
amongst the Congregationalists, not to mention others no 
less deserving. Then too occurred an extensive work of 
grace, "When," in the language of Dr. Griffin, "that moral 
change began which swept from so large a part of Xew 
England its looseness of doctrine, and laxity of discipline, 
and awakened an evangelical pulse in every vein of the 
American church." "In 1T99 I could stand in my door 
in Xew Hartford, Litchfield County, and number fifty or 

17 



194 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

sixty congregations laid down in one field of divine wonders." 
This was a season of extensive refreshing through New 
England, and a writer in one of the leading reviews of 
our country has well said, " the dogmatic peculiarity of 
that revival era was the doctrine of divine sovereignty." 
It is a significant fact that Dr. Dwight, then president 
of Yale College, who bore a distinguished part in that work 
of grace, in which also the institution of his care and love 
shared, devoted in his system of divinity over four hundred 
and fifty pages to the discussion of the divine and media- 
torial character of Christ ? 

This work of grace gave tone to the doctrines of the 
churches, and the ministry were freshly annointed to defend 
them. The limits of orthodoxy were rendered more distinct, 
and the evangelical doctrines were emphatically asserted. 
Ministers who were reared in the midst of these impressive 
scenes would be likely to wear the seal of the doctrinal pecu- 
liarity of the times. 

Converted in the year 11 9 7 it was but reasonable to expect 
that Dr. Kendrick's sympathies would be found decidedly 
with the strong doctrines of grace, and particularly attached 
to those gospel themes that God then honored for the salva- 
tion of men. With no one doctrine was he then more 
delighted than with that of divine sovereignty. He espoused 
its advocacy from the first, and after cleaving to it with 
undivided affection for more than fifty years, still reposed in 
it with calmness and peace. 

We shall attempt, in this chapter, to exhibit somewhat 
particularly the views which Dr. Kendrick entertained of the 
gospel scheme, not, indeed, in all its detail, but so that the 
points omitted may be readily inferred from the general 
system. 

One of the doctor's theological instructors was charged 
with fellowshiping " New Divinity." We refer to Dr. 
Emmons, a bold, original, and independent thinker, who par- 
ticularly advised his students in their studies to think inde- 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 195 

pendently. He claimed himself to be a very thorough and 
consistent, Supralapsarian Calvinist. 

It is fair to hear his own words and those of his biographer : 

" I was early and warmly attached to genuine Calvinism, 
which I believed to be built upon the firm foundation of the 
gospel itself. This system, I have thought, and still think, 
is the very form of sound words, which the apostles and 
their successors taught, long before Calvin was born ; and 
which has been constantly maintained by those who have 
been justly called orthodox in distinction from Heterodox 
Christians, ever since the propagation of the Christian reli- 
gion. But Calvinism has lost much of its purity and simpli- 
city by going through so many unskillful hands of its friends. 
This has given great advantages to its enemies, who have 
clearly discovered, and successfully attacked some of its 
excrescences and protuberances. 

" I know that some Calvinists maintain that the first sin of 
Adam is imputed to his posterity ; that the righteousness of 
Christ is imputed to believers for their justification ; that sin- 
ners are under natural inability to turn from sin to holiness ; 
and that Christ made atonement for the elect only. I grant, 
these are gross absurdities, or mere wens and protuberances, 
which must be pared off from true Calvinism, in order to 
make it appear consistent with both reason and scripture. 
Accordingly, modern Calvinists readily surrender their for- 
merly untenable out-posts, and now find it more easy to 
defend their citadal against all attacks of their most numer- 
ous adversaries." 

His biographer, Dr. Ide, says farther : "If he was not the 
first that discovered the truth that all sin and holiness consist 
in action, or in voluntary exercises of the mind, he was the 
first to make an extensive use of this principle in explaining 
the doctrines of the gospel. He not only believed with others, 
that much of the sin and holiness of men consists in their 
voluntary affections, but that all of it does ; and this princi- 
ple he carried out in all its bearings upon the subject of 



196 REV. NATHANIEL KEXDEICK, D.D. 

human depravity, the connection of Adam with his posterity 
the doctrine of regeneration, the free agency and accounta- 
bility of man, and the government of God. From this prin- 
ciple it follows that the depravity of mankind is not a cor- 
rupt nature inherent from Adam, but their own voluntary 
opposition to God ; that regeneration consists not in the 
implantation of a new principle distinct from the affections 
of the mind, but in a change in the affections themselves from 
sin to holiness ; that God does not require men to alter the 
nature which he has given them, or to make themselves new 
faculties or powers, but to exercise that holiness of heart, for 
whi^h he has given them the requisite capacity." 

In the views expressed in the above paragraphs relative 
to the moral condition of man, as a sinner, Dr. Kendrick did 
not concur with his eminent teacher. His bearings were in 
the direction of the old divinity, of the stern order ; holding 
with the advocates of " the taste scheme," that moral depra- 
vity is conveyed from Adam to his posterity ; that our great 
progenitor, was the federal representative of his race ; that 
prior to all action, there is in man a sinful disposition. In 
these points he could agree with his earlier instructor, Dr. 
Burton, of Thetford, Vermont. 

Holding that man possesses a corrupt nature by virtue of 
his connection with the first Adam, he was equally persist- 
ent in his views of the necessity of regeneration by the Holy 
Spirit. He was a decided advocate for the doctrine of impu- 
tation, both of the guilt of Adam to his posterity, and of the 
righteousness of Christ to his people. 

He not only believed in the divine sovereignty of God, 
and in his unchangeable purposes, and electing grace, but 
advocated them as a part of the gospel scheme ; as great 
principles underlying the whole, and yielding to his own 
soul supplies of consolation. These were none of them 
themes of polemic discussion, or of dry metaphysical specu- 
lation, but doctines that gave comfort to a trusting heart — . 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 197 

doctrines confiding in which, he could glorify God when pas- 
sing through the fires of affliction. 

With regard to God's ultimate end in all his operations, Dr. 
Kendrick believed, contrary to some modern divines, that this 
end was his own glory. He conceived no other end worthy 
of the divine Being. To use his own language, " God can 
no more act below the dignity of his character, than he can 
deny himself." He believed that the Scriptures declared this 
to be the end of God in creation, in redemption, and in all 
that he does ; and that the same oracles propose this to man- 
kind as the ultimate end of all their actions. 

To resume his words, — " God delights in seeing the, per- 
fections of his character portrayed upon the face of his sys- 
tem. The whole created system is not the power of God, 
but the effect of his power. The created system is no further 
valuable in the sight of God, than it makes his glory known. 
The greatest sum of created happiness is no more to be iden- 
tified with the perfections of God, than an effect is to be 
identified with its cause. The good of the created system is 
as distinct from God himself, as the creature is distinct from 
the Creator. God's motive to action was and continues to be 
in himself. If God has the greatest good of the created sys- 
tem for his ultimate end, he acts to an end infinitely inferior 
to himself. To define that motive, which in no respect is 
exterior to the mind, but exists in the very nature of the 
being himself, is beyond the power of the human understand- 
ing. In this the Divine Being differs from all created beings. 
1 For of him, and to him, and by him are all things, to whom 
be glory forever and ever, amen.' A full expression of 
God's essential glory, is the ultimate end of all his opera- 
tions." 

Dr. Kendrick believed that the atonement was made on 
covenant principles ; that a contract existed between the per- 
sons of the Godhead, in virtue of which the Son was to 
assume human nature, be subject to the law, suffer upon the 
cross, and receive as his reward a kingdom. The subjects of 

17* 



193 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D 

this kingdom were to consist of a certain number of the hu- 
man family, which number should be pardoned, regenerated, 
sanctified, and eternally saved, as the sure reward of his soul- 
agony. In the execution of this covenant, each person in 
the Godhead had his assigned part, and the mutual engage- 
ments were based upon no uncertainty. 

" The atonement was not necessary to dispose God to the 
exercise of mercy, or to be merciful. He was necessarily 
good, just and merciful, and required no motive to render him 
more or less than he was in any attribute or perfection." " It 
was not necessary to discharge the obligations under which 
sinners are to God, for God will freely and fully forgive all 
who are redeemed from condemnation and wrath." " The 
atonement was necessary in order to render it consistent for 
God to forgive sin ; for the same reason the punishment of 
sinners would have been necessary without an atonement." 

"If we can ascertain the end which would have been an- 
swered by the punishment of transgressors, then we can 
ascertain, with much precision, the end which is answered by 
the atonement of Christ, and why this was necessary that 
God might forgive sins." 

" What end would have been answered by the punishment 
of every sinner according to his demerit ?" " In the first 
place it would have expressed God's hatred to sin. In this 
the holiness and purity of God's nature would have been 
clearly seen, and his infinite aversion to wickedness. In the 
second place, the punishment of transgressors would have 
maintained the honor of the divine law, and fully evinced 
God's attachment to it, as a holy and good law. When a law 
is transgressed with impunity, both the law and the lawgiver 
fall into contempt, unless other measures are accepted which 
secure the united honor of both. " 

" The atonement of Christ is necessary to secure and dis- 
play the justice of God, while the sinner is pardoned and blest 
with all heavenly blessings. It was necessary to show God's 



REV. NATHANIEL KEXDRICK, D. D. 199 

sense of wickedness, and magnify the law and render it 
honorable." 

" The atonement of Christ has made that display of justice 
which the punishment of those who are redeemed would 
have made, admitting it had been inflicted." 

" Now God's displeasure to sin, as strongly appears in 
saving sinners by Jesus Christ, as in damning them to all 
eternity." 

" It is clearly in the light of a substitute, that the atone- 
ment is to be considered — a substitute, in the covenant of 
redemption, for the punishment of the redeemed. It answers 
the same end in the divine administration, to display the 
justice of God, as their punishment would have answered, if 
it had been inflicted." 

Dr. Kendrick also held, that as the atonement of Christ 
was of the nature of a substitution, or expiatory offering for 
the sins of his people, and as such accepted of God, it must 
effectually supersede the punishment of their sins. It is no 
further a substitute, than it prevents the things for which it 
was substituted. 

This was the ground of pardon, and on which regenerating 
grace was bestowed. 

Upon the question, In what did Christ's atonement for sin 
consist? Dr. Kendrick did not coincide with those who place 
it wholly in the sacrifice of Christ, or those who place it 
exclusively in his obedience. He saw no necessity for dis- 
connecting the obedience of Christ, as entering into the 
nature, virtue, and merits of the atonement ; yet his sacrifice 
was the principal thing. To express his view he adopted 
the language of Prof. Stuart: " That all which he did and 
said during his incarnate condition, had some bearing on the 
great work which he came to accomplish, and did in some 
way contribute to it, cannot be reasonably doubted ; but his 
expiatory sacrifice appears to be the great point on which 
rests, in a peculiar manner, the hope of our restoration to 
the divine favor." 



200 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

Dr. Kendrick believed that there was a design in the 
atonement which will be carried out without the possibility 
of failure. If the design of the atonement was to display 
the honor of God's law, and the justice of his character — to 
show that he is just when he forgives sins — then it must 
extend to this object, or else its design is lost. 

" As Christ finished the work which God gave him to do, 
he has brought in an everlasting righteousness, magnified 
the law and made it honorable, and opened a channel for 
mercy to flow to the vilest sinner." 

" Jesus Christ has done as much honor to the law of God, 
by his obedience and death, as the punishment of all its 
transgressors would have done, had they all suffered the 
extent of its penalty." 

" His atonement was made with special reference to sin- 
ners. It stands before God as an open door, for his mercy 
to flow through to guilty creatures. 'I am the door,'' saith 
Christ." 

"Was the door open for all the human race, or with a 
special reference to a definite number? Not for all the 
human race, but with a special reference to a definite number." 

" God's design to save was the only reason why he pro- 
vided the atonement. He designed to save a definite num- 
ber, hence. the atonement had an ultimate reference to them." 

" Christ came into the world, and died to save sinners. 
The number that should be saved was previously known and 
determined. These were given to him, and he called them 
his sheep. Christ died for them, that they might never die, 
but that they might have life through him." .... "If 
Christ had an ultimate reference to the elect in making the 
atonement, does it in any sense regard the non-elect ? An- 
swer, yes." 

"Is it sufficiently extensive in its nature and merits for 
the salvation of all mankind, provided God were now dis- 
posed to save all mankind by an atonement ? Answer. We 
see not why the atonement is not sufficient for all mankind, 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 201 

were God disposed to save all. It has infinite merit, and 
does infinite honor to God's law, and it is not easy to see 
how it can be increased in worth, but only in design. Christ 
is, before God, an open door, through which God can honor- 
ably receive sinners into his favor, and the number received 
is determined by the will of God, and not by the straitness 
of the door." 

" What relation has the atonement to the non-elect ? It 
has the same relation to them as a rich entertainment, made 
by a father for his children, has to strangers, whom he invites 
to partake with them. In the first place, it contains an infi- 
nite fulness, capable of no increase. In the second place, it 
was ultimately provided for the elected children of God. In 
the third place, it was originally designed to be sincerely 
offered to sinners indiscriminately, but applied to none but 
those who were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the 
world. " 

This theory of the atonement of Christ, which Dr. Kend- 
rick adopted, he was well aware was not disencumbered of 
difficulties. The only question he had to ask in reference to 
this or any other doctrine, was simply this, " do the holy 
scriptures teach it ?" If this were decided affirmatively, it 
mattered not what men thought, or how the world would re- 
ceive it. 

In addition to what we have now presented, derived from 
a careful examination of his essays and lectures in manuscript, 
we may quote the language of the late Dr. Maginnis, who 
was for ten years associated with him as a theological teacher : 

"Not long before his death, at a time when I was seated by 
his bedside, our conversation turned upon the subject of the 
atonement. He directed a manuscript to be brought from his 
desk, where he seemed to have long preserved it as a precious 
jewel ; he handed it to me, and commended it to my perusal, 
stating that it contained a most interesting view of the atone- 
ment, and one which was highly satisfactory to his own mind. 
It seemed to be old and much worn, for he said he had allowed 



202 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

it to be copied a number of times. I found it to be a copy 
of a lecture on the atonement, said to have been delivered to 
his students by Kev. Dr. Alexander, the venerable professor 
of theology in Princeton Theological Seminary, whose theo- 
logical sentiments are well known to the public. 

" Of the two works on the atonement, by Jenkyn and Sy- 
mington, which have for some years been before the public, 
he greatly preferred that of Symington." 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 203 



CHAPTER XX. 

Kindness towards those who Dissented from him — Class of 1830 — 
Views as a Baptist — Divine Providence — Illustrations— Striking In- 
stances of Interposing Providences. 

Yital as Dr. Kendrick considered his view of the atone- 
ment, he could yet extend his cordial ministerial fellowship to 
those who held the less rigorous view ; and he inculcated it 
upon his class without assuming that his belief must necessa- 
rily be theirs. Even when views decidedly novel and, in his 
judgment, erroneous were advanced, he still could receive 
them with equanimity, and judge them with kindness and 
candor. One particular instance of this deviation from his 
views, it may be worth while to record, from its own intrinsic 
importance. When the essay which contained it was read 
before the class, — an essay which provided an ingenuous ex- 
pedient for getting rid of limited atonement, — he pleasantly 
observed to the members of the class, that " they had found 
out something new under the sun." 

The instance here alluded to, occurred with the class of 
1830, and the view consisted in following out closely the typi- 
cal sacrifices as presented in the Mosaic economy, assuming 
that the antitype must correspond in the main points with the 
type. By adherence to this rule strictly, several difficulties 
were avoided, the chief of which may be indicated by a glance 
at the view itself. 

The Rev. J. L. Moore, D. D., of Springfield, Ohio, a mem- 
ber of the class referred to, has kindly favored me with the 
following outline. 

" As the high priest under the Levitical economy, with 
blood previously shed, made an atonement in the inner sanc- 
tuary, for those who had confessed their sins over the head of 



204 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D, D. 

the victim slain ; so Christ, our great high priest, having 
shed his blood on the cross as a victim for sin, entered into 
heaven itself, and there and now, with his own blood, he makes 
atonement for every sinner who comes to him in penitence 
and faith for pardon ; and, as under the old dispensation, 
atonement was always made for particular individuals, and 
pardon invariably followed; so under the new dispensation, 
Christ effects our atonement only for repenting, believing, 
sinners, and pardon as invariably follows." 

This view, we are credibly informed, originated with the 
above class, and Rev. Dr. Moore supposed at first that he 
should be able to lay his hand upon the original dissertations, 
in which it was for the first time explained and defended. In 
the absence of that, our readers are furnished with the above 
epitome. If any have a curiosity to look at this, to say the 
least, ingenious construction and interpretation of the doc- 
trine, we refer them to the American Biblical Repository, 
second series, tenth volume, pages 110 — 134, in which the 
above view is set forth at length, by a member of the afore- 
said class, Rev. Alonzo Wheelock, D. D., of New York. We 
may also state that the same view in its main features, though 
less extended, is presented in the first volume of the Christian 
Review, pages 337 — 348, which appeared in the year 1836, 
and was prepared by the Rev. Isaac Merriam, now deceased. 

In taking leave of this branch of scriptural doctrine, it is 
proper to mention that no one topic is more thoroughly dis- 
cussed in the manuscripts of Dr. Kendrick, than that of the 
atonement. 

The following quotation from the pen of Dr. Maginnis, 
exhibits Dr. Kendrick's views as a Baptist : 

" He cherished a very high sense of the importance of the 
Christian ordinances. He held that it was essential to the 
purity of Christian doctrine that these ordinances should be 
preserved in their original simplicity. He disapproved of 
baptizing persons who do not sufficiently understand their 
duty to know what church they ought to unite with, or 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 205 

whether, indeed, they ought to connect themselves with any- 
He also believed it to be contrary to the order of God's 
house, that those should be admitted to the Lord's supper 
who had nfcver been properly baptized. But he advocated 
the practice of receiving, without re-baptism, those present- 
ing themselves for reception to a Baptist church, who have 
been immersed, upon a profession of their faith, by Pedo- 
baptist ministers. He was, however, in favor of re-ordaining 
ministers who are to be received into the Baptist connection 
from Pedobaptist churches. His reasons for this latter prac- 
tice I am unable to state, and any arguments of my own 
would here be out of place. Yet it is obvious, that there is 
no incongruity between this and the practice above men- 
tioned ; for in baptism, the intention of the candidate to ren- 
der sincere obedience to the divine command, is all that can 
be essential to the validity of his act, where it is conformed 
to the scriptural mode ; while in ordination, it is well known 
that the vows assumed by a Pedobaptist minister bind him 
to the performance of a specific religious rite, which Baptists 
regard as unscriptural, and subversive of one of the institu- 
tions of Christ." 

We pass to a brief notice of Dr Kendrick's views of 
Divine Providence. He held no novel or singular view on 
this point, but while he maintained that God presided over 
the universe of matter and mind, and his plans took into 
account alike the momentous and the trivial events, he con- 
fided in this doctrine, as one from which he might derive 
comfort and instruction. He sought to turn it to high prac- 
tical uses. He made its study a sort of criterion to ascertain 
whether the God of Providence would have him go, what 
course he had prescribed for him and for others ; and when a 
good degree of satisfaction was reached upon these points, he 
had the highest pleasure in pursuing the path which was 
thus marked out. 

He never turned to the book of Divine Providence to bring 
discredit upon the inspired volume, but rather the more to do 

18 



206 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

it honor. He sought to accept the latter as the great source 
and authority for the former ; and so far from arraying one 
against the other, he aimed rather to render them mutual in- 
terpreters. Seldom does the life of any one afford more 
incidents than did his own, to confirm and illustrate his views 
of Divine Providence. 

There was in his own training and preparation for the 
ministry, seemingly forced upon him by the stringent power 
of circumstances, an intimate and direct bearing upon the 
career of his riper years, which it was not possible for him to 
forecast. In his discipline for the sacred office, he was the 
child of providence ; fortunate in his connection with able, 
original, and master minds, he learned from them, living ora- 
cles in their way, w T hat was not to be found in the schools. 
Events conspired to put him in possession of that kind of 
knowledge which would render him an intelligent adviser 
and a practical worker in all the departments of the king- 
dom of Christ. He was initiated at the fountain head into 
all the branches of our denominational benevolent enter- 
prises, and familiar with those projected in every part of 
Christendom. 

Still further, in his intercourse with the friends of Zion, in 
various parts of New England and New York, we now dis- 
cern the germs of influence that afterwards ripened into a 
harvest in favor of that seat of sacred learniDg, which it was 
his privilege to aid in founding and directing. If the annals 
of that school be opened and read, we can reach no other 
conclusion, than that it is the foster child of Divine Provi- 
dence. Its projectors could not presage its history, could 
not divine its success, nor its progressive changes. It had 
no prototype in this, nor in any other land. A providential 
necessity gave it birth, and then for its nurture and develop- 
ment it was equally cast upon the Fatherhood of Providence. 
It had no opulent founder first to give it a name, and then 
permit it to draw from his purse. Poverty denied it for a 
time a name, and for its support it craved the charities of the 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEIOK, D. D. 207 

poor; and from the hour of its feeble infancy to its present 
sturdy manhood, has depended largely upon the prayers and 
contributions of the pious poor. 

There are marked instances of divine interposition that 
exhibit the faith of the men engaged in this enterprise, and 
show that it was regarded as a religious affair. The one 
which we here narrate came from the lips of Dr. Kendrick 
himself; the writer is indebted for it to the kindness of Rev. 
B. N. Leach, D. D. 

The meetings of the board, particularly in the early his- 
tory of the seminary, often presented scenes of deep and 
moving interest. They were not so much seasons for the 
dry discussion of business as of prayer, inasmuch as from 
their great extremity they were driven to ask counsel of 
God, and implore deliverance from embarrassment through 
his interposition. At one meeting of the board, which pro- 
bably occurred in 1826, most of the time was spent in earnest 
prayer, and strong crying to God for direction. The board 
felt the need of a suitable edifice to accommodate the growing 
school. The stone building which is now the Young Men's 
Academy, was too limited in its arrangements ; and besides, 
the board was in a great measure destitute of funds to aid 
those brethren whom they had received as beneficiaries. At 
the meeting now referred to, the only vote passed was one 
appointing a day of fasting and prayer some six weeks from 
that session. It was a dark hour, but just the darkness that 
precedes the cheerful light of day. 

Before the time arrived for the adjourned meeting of the 
board, the Rev. Dr. Gano, of Providence, R. I., made a visit 
to Hamilton. His visit was a somewhat singular, though a 
highly acceptable one. It was in this wise : a member of his 
congregation, the late Nicholas Brown, Esq., came to him 
one day and inquired whether he knew any thing definitely 
about the affairs of Hamilton Institution, for said he, "I 
cannot sleep ; they are in trouble there. I dream about them 
nightly." The pastor, able and intelligent as he confessedly 



208 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

was, had to acknowledge his ignorance in this particular 
instance. Mr. Brown persisted in maintaining that they 
were certainly in trouble at Hamilton, and nothing would 
satisfy his mind but to have his pastor make a journey, at 
his expense, to this seat of learning, and ascertain its financial 
condition. Accordingly, Dr. Gano undertook the journey, 
spending some ten days in the village of Hamilton, and 
thoroughly acquainting himself with the general policy, 
plans, prospects, and necessities of the newly founded semi- 
nary. On his return he reported to his friend and par- 
ishioner, whose sleep had been intermitted through concern 
for this feeble child of providence, all the facts in the case. 
The earnest inquirer procuring information at the sacrifice of 
a considerable amount of money, gave a noble testimony to 
his deep interest in the institution by immediately sending 
his pledge of one thousand dollars for a new building. This 
was so obviously of the Lord, that it could be regarded in 
no other light than one of his favoring providences. But for 
such tokens that were greeting the friends and the immedi- 
ate directors of this school, it would long since have died out. 
One now who was an eye-witness of those struggles in 
prayer, at the board meetings, and then saw also the answers 
that were sent to their requests, occurring as they did, and 
when they did, might well come to entertain a firm belief in 
the doctrine of divine providence, were his mind shut up to 
inferences drawn from this sphere alone. But, with Dr. 
Kendrick, his life and labors were a tissue of providences. 
By these, in a great measure, every removal and every 
change was brought about. He did not dare to close his 
labors in any field which he entered, however small it might 
be, till he had unmistakable evidences that it was the will of 
God that he should retire from it. Nor would he enter upon 
a new one, till he saw with equal clearness and certainty, 
that his Master said, " Go, for I have sent thee." Personal 
interest might be shown to lie in this or that direction, but 
this was not a decisive argument. Bather was he inclined 






EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 209 

to be suspicious of that which seemed to promise him 
worldly advantage. He sought to know when and whither 
moved the pillar and the cloud of divine providence. 

We adduce an instance, which is one of many probably in 
several respects similar. The case is one that incidentally 
sheds light upon the character of the men concerned in the 
transaction ; and many friends in Zion will have a still deeper 
interest in the persons by knowing who they were. 

In the winter of 1841 or '42, Rev. T. Gr. Lamb, of the class 
of 1842, observed one of his fellow students in one of the 
classes below him, to be laboring under depression of spirits. 
This continued for two or three weeks. For the purpose of 
ascertaining the cause of his dejection, Mr. L. called at his 
room, suspecting that it might be the "want of funds," which 
was a stereotyped phrase among the students, and finding 
the victim of depression not very communicative, he pro- 
ceeded to give an account of his own trials in procuring the 
necessary means for prosecuting his course of study. This 
was a door of access to the other's heart, and he freely dis- 
closed to him his situation. He said he was driven to the 
necessity of leaving his studies for a time, to occupy a situa- 
tion as a teacher in a school which had been tendered him, 
and he was then penning his acceptance of the offer. Mr. 
Lamb requested him to defer mailing his letter for a day, and 
make known his straitened condition to Dr. Kendrick, sup- 
posing it probable that he might obtain help, and be spared 
the painful necessity of absence from the institution, and 
interruption in his course of study. To this the reply of the 
other was, that " he would much rather dig than beg." 

" I then," says Mr. L., " left him, and muffled myself up — 
for it was an unpleasant winter evening — and made my way 
to the residence of the venerable president of the institution. 
I found him in his study, where I was received with his 
usual paternal familiarity. I then stated the object of my 
visit; when he immediately took from his secretary a letter, 
and replied in the following language :" "I am happy to 

18* 



210 KEY. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

meet with providential illustrations of the topic of my dis- 
course upon last Lord's Day," which was the Special Provi- 
dence of God. "Here is a letter which I received this 
morning from a friend and classmate in Yermont, who, 
immediately upon having seen an appeal from my pen in 
behalf of our indigent young men, has forwarded me forty 
dollars, which he directs me to give to the most needy young 
man in the institution. Do you not think our Father intends 
it for this brother?" calling his name. "Please ask him to 
call on me in the morning." 

Mr. Lamb made his ascent to the seminary buildings with 
nimble footsteps, and hastened to the room where he had, a 
little while before, arrested the winged messenger, or rather 
prevented its flight, and communicated the results of his 
interview with the president. The news drew tears of 
gratitude from the eyes of him who was thus unexpectedly 
favored of his Heavenly Father. In the morning he called 
as desired, and became the recipient of the donation of forty 
dollars, which came not from a professed disciple of Christ, 
but from a personal friend of Dr. Kendrick. The indigent 
student, thus aided, and permitted to go on uninterruptedly 
in his course, was Rev. E. C. Lord, now of the China 
mission. 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 211 



CHAPTER XXL 

Plan of Discourses — Choice of Texts — Their Suitableness — Instances — 
Doctrinal — Not a Favorite with the Masses — His mind Deliberate — 
Anecdote — Appearance in the Pulpit — Occasionally Eloquent— Treat- 
ment of Controverted Subjects — Instance — Special Occasions — Vale- 
dictory Address — Sermons Scriptural — Counsel to Inquirers. 

If there was any thing in which Dr. Kendrick was par- 
ticularly excellent as a sermonizer, we should unhesitatingly 
say, it was in the plan of his discourses. Whatever defects 
his sermons might exhibit, they presented usually this 
commendable feature, viz. : a good plan, one that seemed to 
grow naturally out of the subject, and while each part seemed 
dependent upon all the other parts, preserved a high degree 
of unity in the development of the theme. An examination 
of the skeletons of his discourses justifies our statement, and 
the testimony of those who often listened to him will corrobo- 
rate our view. 

Many of his discourses are now to be seen only in 
skeletons ; simply the main divisions and heads, and here 
the verdict of praise, or censure must be passed upon the 
plan only. Of most of his discourses, he wrote out only the 
principal parts, leaving the outline to be filled at the time of 
delivery. 

The supplement would be readily suggested from the 
leading channels of thought, and from the animus of the 
subject, so far drawn out upon paper. This appears to have 
been the course adopted in the earlier stage of his ministry, 
and followed up through many years of his pastoral labors. 
He also wrote discourses in full, and occasionally one was 
published, but the instances of publication are rare. He 
recommended to his pupils the habit of laying out the plan 
of a sermon with great care, and disciplining themselves to 



212 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICE, D. D. 

supply the matter under each division and head, extempo- 
raneously. It was rather an extempore use of language, than 
of matter. This he conceived on the whole to offer the 
greatest freedom in delivery, and to approach the nearest to 
the true idea of preaching the gospel. 

Another praise-worthy quality was the taste displayed in 
the choice of texts. A good text does not always communi- 
cate its virtues to the sermon, for we know instances in which 
the main link of connection consists in the text being named 
just before the sermon is delivered. In Dr. Kendrick's hands 
a good text was the unfailing pledge of good matter, alike in 
the warp and the woof of his discourse. He had no predi- 
lection for strange and curious texts. He invariably sought 
for a passage that conveyed either in itself, or in its connec- 
tives, some distinct sentiment. Every auditor would feel 
that if the sermon were indifferent, the text was still weighty 
and instructive. The adoption of some scripture phrase for 
a motto, to be echoed at the close of each high sounding 
paragraph, had no place in his pulpit preparations • and the 
verdict of his judgment was against all studied eccentricities. 
By his uniform practice, he eschewed novelties and extrava- 
gances as involving a forfeiture of ministerial dignity. 
Knowing, that in the very style in which the message is 
conveyed, there may be a perversion of the spirit of the 
gospel. Dr. Kendrick was conscientiously studious upon 
this point. His language was in uniform keeping with the 
nature of the truths which he delivered, and the object which 
they proposed. 

It would be no difficult task to point out specimens of texts 
chosen with singular appropriateness to time and circum- 
stances. Indeed, we do not see that any more pertinent 
passages could have been found in the whole range of the 
Old and New Testament Scriptures. 

We adduce a few in illustration of our statements. 

A young lady had lost her parents by death in the far 
west ; the occasion was commemorated by a discourse 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 213 

founded upon Hosea, xiv., 3. "Neither will we say any- 
more to the work of our hands, ye are our gods : for in thee 
the fatherless find mercy." 

A person had arrived in the town of Salisbury, and died 
the day after his arrival. Officiating at the funeral, Mr. 
Kendrick selected the text : " Boast not thyself of to-morrow, 
for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." 

Another had died in an apoplectic fit ; the following was 
chosen for the funeral services : " What shall I do unto 
thee, thou preserver of men ? Why hast thou set me as 
a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself ?" 

On the burial of a wife, he chose this, " Lover and friend 
hast thou put far from me." 

He was present at the death-scene of a wife and mother 
who was remarkably revived, in strength a little prior to her 
departure. In this return of strength she made confession of 
sin, committed her soul to Jesus, her husband, children and 
friends to the divine mercy ; and after praying and con- 
versing with a loud voice for nearly an hour, to the 
astonishment of all present, she sank away in death. The 
circumstance was thus noticed in Mr. Kendrick's Diary. 
" This may be a case in which redeeming mercy was afforded 
in the last moments of life ; this scripture was the text for 
the funeral discourse : ' Wherefore he is able also to save 
them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing 
He ever liveth to make intercession for them. " 

These instances all occurred within the space of six months 
perhaps, but we need not extend our comments upon this 
point. 

Dr. Kendrick was eminently a doctrinal preacher ; he early 
discovered predilections for a thorough study of the doctrines 
of the gospel ; he was also interested in familiar discussions of 
them in social intercourse, and in addition to this his habits 
as a theological instructor required him to dwell much upon 
them. Besides, he valued them as essential to the complete 
discharge of ministerial obligation. In the words of an 



21tt EEV. NATHANIEL 

associate teacher, from whom we have already quoted, " his 
aim was so to present the doctrines of the Bible that they 
might all be seen to centre in, and illustrate the great theme 
of the cross. He regarded a correct knowledge of scriptural 
doctrine as essential to enlightened views of Christian duty, 
and as supplying the most safe and wholesome stimulant to 
right action. His instructions were, therefore, highly prac- 
tical in their tendency. Those who sat under his ministry 
were accustomed to hear the duties of religion urged upon 
proper grounds, and by pure and elevating motives, and 
could not fail to acquire just conceptions of the elements 
which belong to a true and genuine Christian character." 

The taste which Dr. Kendrick evinced in preaching would 
not render him popular with the masses. He could scarcely 
be a favorite with the multitude, for while he had some 
capital points as a public speaker, he still lacked some of the 
essential characteristics of a good pulpit orator. He could 
seize upon the strong features of a subject, and present them 
forcibly with argument, tact and real skill ; but it did not 
come within his province to give the nice and delicate lights 
and shades of a picture at once striking and enchanting. In 
any approach to the dramatic he would utterly fail ; his mind 
must always have time to work ; it could not throw itself at 
once upon an interesting train of thought and illustration, 
and move rapidly along with unfaltering tread. Cautious 
and deliberate, it must have opportunity to describe its course 
with wary step. It was a manifest law of his mental consti- 
tution "to make haste slowly." The preliminaries of his 
ordinary or extraordinary efforts would seldom strike an 
audience favorably. In his introduction he was not emotional, 
his soul could not be set on fire with his favorite themes in 
the outset of his public addresses. He was himself sensible 
of this, and it is illustrated by a slight anecdote which we 
will take the liberty of relating. 

During much of his ministry in Eaton he resided in Hamil- 
ton, for the more convenient discharge of his duties in the 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 215 

seminary, and usually rode over to his place of worship on 
Sunday morning. On one of these occasions, being accom- 
panied by his little daughter, Cordelia, she, with the artless- 
ness of a child, inquired, "Whether it would not be a good 
plan for him to begin his discourse on the way, so that he 
might get fairly agoing by the time the hour of service 
arrived. " The father felt the force of the hint thus brought 
out, and no doubt richly enjoyed the innocent joke ; and he 
was accustomed in after years to rehearse the incident to his 
pupils, as revealing an infirmity of which he was sensible, 
and which was also obvious to a child. Neither age nor 
experience could remove this habit, it was inwrought with 
the constitution of his mind. 

Dr. Kendrick's appearance in the pulpit, though dignified 
and commanding, from his physical proportions, and high 
intellectual development, was also evincive of extreme modesty. 
In his personal bearing he seemed as if desirous of shrinking 
from the position he was compelled to assume. At first, 
upon rising in the pulpit, he was inclined to stoop, and bow 
the head; besides, he had a habit of changing his posture at 
very brief intervals, as if the desk were too low for him, which 
awakened for the moment the impression of awkwardness. 

The implied criticism which Dr. Stillman made upon his 
manner in his pulpit, when he occupied it in his youth, and 
among his early attempts in addressing large assemblies, 
would have been equally applicable after nearly half a cen- 
tury's experience. The suggestion of the Doctor was, "that 
he should stand upright, not lean forward, nor have any 
backward motion." 

A very perceptible change would take place in his manner 
when the preliminaries were disposed of, and his giant mind 
began fully to grasp the subject before him. His stalwart 
form would rise to its full altitude, his gesticulation would 
become frequently graceful and dignified, his countenance 
bright with animation ; and there were occasions when he 
would bear along his auditors upon a tide of genuine and 



216 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

lofty eloquence, and when lie rose to a perfect mastery over 
the sublime themes which he was unfolding. Had his voice 
possessed the compass which some gifted speakers have it 
would have placed some of his happiest efforts in the front 
ranks of pulpit oratory. But it lacked compass, and as he 
advanced with the merits of his subject he usually suffered it 
to rise' too high, and thus put it out of his power to use the 
mellifluous cadences of a finished orator. The transitions 
from a high to a low key were too abruptly made to produce 
the happiest effect. 

To draw forth Dr. Kendrick's best pulpit efforts required 
more than an ordinary occasion. Let a subject be assigned 
to him, and though it might be environed with difficulties, he 
would disentangle many an intricate fold, and where he could 
not untie the gordian knot, he could discourse reasons for the 
mystery, which if they did not satisfy the minds of his audi- 
ence, went far to silence their objections. If appointed to 
exhibit a particular doctrine, or defend any distinguishing 
feature of the denomination to which he was attached, he left 
no point unfortified, and went far toward exhausting all the 
elements of the subject under discussion. 

Soon after his removal to Eaton, he was called to preach 
upon the covenants, on a special occasion. A revered 
mother in Israel, who in after years had a son to enter the 
ministry, was induced to review the grounds of her baptism, 
and after a severe struggle, and an investigation prolonged 
through more than a year, she and her daughter became con- 
verts to Baptist sentiments. The then recent change of 
views on the part of Judson and Bice, originated this exami- 
nation. They resided in Hamilton, and were baptized by 
Rev. Daniel Hascall, pastor of the church there. On the 
occasion of their baptism, Dr. Kendrick preached the sermon, 
above alluded to. One of the hearers observed, " It was a 
masterly discussion on the covenants, founded upon 2 Sam- 
uel, 23 : 5, and left neither nook nor corner for Pedobaptism 
to hide itself in ; it made a strong impression." 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRIOK, D. D. 217 

The confidence reposed in Dr. Kendrick, as a sound and 
able preacher naturally induced his brethren both among the 
laymen and the ministry, to call him forward on important 
occasions, and impose upon him the duty of instructing the 
people. Being frequently required to preach on ordination 
occasions, he was specially familiar with the whole range of 
themes for such services, and could discuss with great force 
and pertinence, the duties, privileges, and results of minis- 
terial labor. He was also very happy on funeral occasions, 
and there are in manuscript, sermons delivered upon the 
decease of valued laborers in the ministry, which would take 
a high rank in this department of Christian literature. While 
they pay a deserved tribute to departed worth, they are ap- 
plied practically to the benefit of the living. They guard with 
special care against allowing their portraitures of Christian 
excellence to degenerate into indiscriminate and fulsome 
eulogy, and against a failure to render the proper acknow- 
ledgment for distinguished excellencies to divine grace. 

As the Corresponding Secretary of the New York Baptist 
Education Society, he was frequently called to chronicle the 
departure of its members, and to place in the annual report 
a tribute to their memory. Those who have read these have 
not failed to notice that they embody with admirable fitness, 
what it is well for us to hold in remembrance, of those now 
sanctified and made perfect, while the means whereby they 
were made so, are magnified and commended to our adoption. 

It often fell to Dr. Kendrick's lot to give the parting 
address to students that had completed their course, and 
these words of counsel now slumbering in the manuscript, 
are as full of real sound, and wholesome advice, as many bac- 
calaureate sermons that have found their way to the press. 
They live still in the heart of many a servant of Jesus, who 
has acted upon them through a long and successful ministry. 
Many of these are touching in the fatherly regard which 
they evince for the candidates of the sacred office, bidding 
adieu to " the school of the prophets," only to assume the 

19 



218 EEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

responsibilities of teachers in the churches of Jesus. Many 
a reader familiar with the deceased, will revive the tall form 
in the chapel of the seminary, appealing in pathetic strains 
to a band of youthful servants, and saying to them as a father 
would to his children, dear to him as the apple of his eye, 
"go forth with the benedictions of heaven upon you." 

Before dismissing this topic, it is the part of justice to add 
that we do not claim for his sermons a style of classical finish 
and elegance, yet for one whose culture was carried on not 
only without acquaintance with the Grecian and Latin mas- 
ters, but also without any thorough early training in the 
higher walks of general literature, his language was choice, 
expressive, and well conceived, to convey what he thoroughly 
understood himself. His sermons were more logical than 
imaginative ; his appeals were addressed to the reason and 
the conscience. It was not his province to deal with the 
emotional part of human nature, with equal success. He 
was sparing of anecdotes and those that were adduced by 
way of illustration, were well authenticated. His discourses 
were eminently spiritual, and interspersed with frequent 
quotations from the inspired record. He acknowledged no 
better source whence to draw illustrations, than the book of 
books. He drew from experience largely, and this has always 
been a prized trait of good preaching. Cecil has gone so far 
as to say, " no man has the moral right to preach beyond his 
own religious experience." Without concurrence in his view, 
we must admit that an experimental preacher will always be 
edifying and comforting to believers, and the ministry of such 
an one, is most frequently honored in the awakening and con- 
version of sinners. 

In rendering counsel to inquirers, Dr. Kendrick's method 
was, not to compromise the high views which he entertained of 
the atonement, of the sovereignty and purposes of God. What 
he believed, he thought was worthy to be inculcated, and he 
scrupled not to enforce his views of gospel truth upon the 
awakened sinner. He felt an entire confidence to abide the 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 219 

result of a truthful presentation of the gospel. He believed 
it was the prerogative of the Holy Spirit to employ the word 
for the conviction and conversion of the sinner. A lady who 
had sought his counsel when under pungent conviction, said, 
in referring to this method of Mr. Kendrick. " that in the 
hour of her deepest anxiety and despondence he said to her, 
he did not think the Lord ever had heard, or ever would 
hear and answer the prayer of an impenitent sinner." " I 
have never," said she, " repeated this suggestion to approv- 
ing ears, yet I trust it was blest to me ; that it drove me 
from myself to the one all sufficient Refuge." 



220 EEV. NATHANIEL KEN D KICK, D. D. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Congeniality — Frankness — Caution — Conversational Gift — Christian 
Gentleman — Pacificator — Bearing his own Trials — Illustration — 
Gaining the Confidence of others — A Case in Point — Home — Hos- 
pitality — Correspondence — Letters of Rev. A. Ten Brook and James 
Edmonds. 

In social and domestic life, Dr. Kendrick was always at 
home. He was eminently adapted to meet the views and 
feelings of those with whom he had intercourse, in a manner 
at once pleasing and instructive, whether he perfectly coin- 
cided with them, or widely differed in opinion. Never for- 
ward to assume the labor of entertaining the circle into which 
he might be casually thrown, or which he had voluntarily 
and designedly joined, he was yet ever ready to contribute 
his share to the pleasure and profit of the occasion. Nor did 
the emergency, however sudden, find him disconcerted and 
devoid of the means of social entertainment. It required no 
forced drafts upon him to meet the exigences of the case, 
ordinary or extraordinary ; for his conversational gift was 
exuberant, and his fund of information ample, and his native 
store of wit never wanting, though he drew but cautiously 
from the last named resource, lest it might detract from his 
ministerial character. While he was the last to pride him- 
self in the possession of any gifts, he still called them into 
service, as opportunity revealed to him the befitting moment 
of their use. 

These traits of character, qualifying him for social life, 
rendered him a favorite in the families where he was a well 
known and frequent guest. The children of the household 
were ever delighted to see him, and equally with the adult 
members seemed to share in the common joy which the 
presence of the guest created. 



REV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K, D. D. 221 

A keen sense of propriety ever dominant in him, kept him 
from excessive freedom in his frankness, on the one hand, and 
equally removed, on the other, from that bondage of secrecy 
that locks up the sympathies of men. His choice was the 
happy medium which prudence ever suggests, and which long 
acquaintance justifies. His frankness never betrayed him 
into weaknesses, nor did his reserve lay him open to the 
charge of coldness and selfishness. Thus cautious in his 
social habit, he was rarely mistaken in the attachments which 
he formed. They were enduring ; and the only change they 
knew, was the agreeable one of growing with years, and 
ripening with intercourse. 

It was no aim of his, to render himself agreeable that he 
might minister to his love of approbation, but to make all 
moments and opportunities minister to some good end. He 
never felt himself at liberty either to neglect or abuse his 
conversational gifts. 

In the character which we are delineating, there was pre- 
sented an admirable specimen of a Christian gentleman. He 
not only knew what was truly courteous, but it was a law of 
his cultivated nature to practice it. The ease and grace with 
which he carried out this feature of a finished man, impressed 
others with its value, and commended its culture, without 
any honeyed words. If he ever suffered from the incivility 
of others, few would ever know any thing of its .occurrence 
from him ; and where many would be moved with indigna- 
tion, and resolve upon having satisfaction, he would quietly 
bear and forbear, and await the merited recompense from 
higher than human hands. He knew but one rule by which 
to square his conduct with men, and that was derived from 
the pen of inspiration. While some seem to forget the 
blessed injunctions of the Heavenly Master when under the 
heat of animated discussion, and amid the asperities growing 
out of differences of judgment, he never lost sight of the 
apostolic requirement, " Love as brethren, be pitiful, be 
courteous." 

19* 



222 REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

Hence in the storm, however raised, he was the pacificator 
rather than the partisan. He sought to assuage the fury of 
the waves, and bring in the tranquillizing spirit of peace and 
love. This bent of mind pointed him out as a competent 
umpire in cases of division and difficulty ; and entailed upon 
him the unwelcome, and often thankless task of administering 
advice where the peace of churches had been broken. By 
the exercise of such traits of character as these, his counsels 
were sought, even after he was laid aside and suffering ex- 
cruciatingly upon his bed. It was not unusual for him to listen 
patiently to the narration of difficulties, even when his friends 
deemed it far beyond his strength. Nevertheless, his inter- 
est in the peace and prosperity of the churches led him to 
forget self, to forego rest, when an opportunity was thus 
presented of doing good to others. It was not his habit to 
disclose his own trials, even to near friends, while any pos- 
sible hope remained of their favorable issue. His strong 
hold upon an unseen arm in those seasons, was known to but 
very few. 

An instance occurs that will illustrate the point before us : 
During the season already described, in which the leaven 
of Unitarianism infected a portion of the students in the 
seminary, Dr. Kendrick was observed to be thoughtful, and 
deeply intent upon some weighty subject. None could know 
for a time what it was that oppressed his mind, not even the 
members of his own family; so habituated was he to bear 
his own burdens. But it did not escape the notice of some 
in the family, that during the watches of the night his voice 
was heard in under tones from one of the secret apartments 
of his dwelling. The object of those repeated and weary 
vigils may be readily imagined. They remind us of the 
passage, "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh 
in the morning." We have only to remind our readers of 
the happy issue to that discussion, followed as it was by the 
effusions of the Holy Spirit, and the ingathering of precious 
souls into the kingdom of Christ. 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 223 

Dr. Kendriek had a happy faculty for winning upon the 
confidence and affections alike of brethren and of those who 
made no pretensions to personal religion. It was no rare 
thing with him to enlist strongly the sympathies of worldly 
men in support of the institution with which he was so long 
connected, and with the prosperity of which his very life 
was identified. 

A single instance will show the power of his courteous 
demeanor. A gentleman from a distant city, at the special 
invitation of Dr. Kendriek paid a visit to Hamilton, and 
shared the generous hospitality of his home. The seat of 
learning was opened to his inspection, its noble objects 
explained and advocated ; not with the obtrusive officiousness 
which might prejudice an unconverted mind against the 
cherished object, but with the collectedness of fixed faith in 
the enterprise, heaven-born and ordained to live. 

The favorable result of the visit was, that the gentleman 
gave, upon his departure, a pledge of one thousand dollars, 
as a donation to the seminary. This gentleness of bearing, 
this calmness and self-possession when meeting minds that 
had been ruffled by passion, or biased by unfounded preju- 
dice, quenched many a fiery dart, and turned away many a 
fiercely hurled weapon from this beloved institution during 
its infancy, childhood, and riper years. ]S T or did Christian 
courtesy forsake Dr. Kendriek as he forsook the outer world, 
and entered the precincts of his quiet home. It was not a 
mere outer garment, there to be laid aside. It was inter- 
woven with the texture of the soul, and he could cast it off 
only when he cast away himself. In his own family he was 
free, affectionate, and playful. He loved home, and was 
passionately fond of his children. It was a pleasure to ren- 
der them happy, and to pour the sunlight of his countenance 
upon all who clustered around the welcome board. The 
inmates of his home were many, but all knew the generosity 
of his heart, and his liberal hospitality. 

For many years the anniversary occasions called together 



224 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

a throng of visitors from various sections of the land. This 
annual concourse of guests is likely to weary some, dwelling 
in close proximity to seats of learning. The novelty wears 
away, and at length, though the heart is cheered by the 
presence of distinguished personages, yet the large crowds 
that gather, frequently impose tasks, by no means easy to be 
borne. 

In the support of these burdens the home of Dr. Kend- 
rick had its full share. So far, however, from weighing 
them, the privilege of doing it was the chief consideration. 
It was turned into a gala season of Christian intercourse 
and cordial greeting of friends. The apartments of the 
whole dwelling were turned into dormitories by night, and 
dining halls by day. A hundred dollars expended in hospi- 
tality was deemed a cheap method of doing good to a needy 
cause, which was second to none in the list of benevolent 
objects. The annual expense of hospitality on these occa- 
sions might not vary much from the above sum, but it was 
accounted as trivial compared with the satisfaction it yielded. 
Home would have lost one of its most significant meanings 
to Dr. Kendrick, had it not been the centre of large hospi- 
tality. 

There is still another sphere in which the Christian gentle- 
man is displayed in a cheering light. Dr. Kendrick's corres- 
pondence was very extensive. This was rendered necessary 
alike from the official relation to the seminary, which he long 
sustained as its corresponding secretary, and from his wide 
personal acquaintance, which both duty and inclination 
prompted him to maintain. These duties as a correspondent 
were performed with the most scrupulous fidelity, and the 
perusal of his letters is eminently instructive. Time has 
turned the sheets into a yellow hue, and the letters long since 
traced by the hand that is now quiet in the grave, have faded 
somewhat, but the well formed characters are there, the punc- 
tuation is not omitted, and every letter that is entitled to a 
cross, or dot, has it. It was characteristic of the man to do 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENBBICK, D. D. 225 

his work well, and he would not send these winged messen- 
gers abroad until they were full fledged. 

The style and spirit of his correspondence were also in ad- 
mirable keeping with his character. It was never slovenly 
and slipshod, never even careless, but always in a form which 
fitted it for the press. In spirit, it ever rose to the height of 
the subject, and preserved throughout a noble dignity, evinc- 
ing in its author respect alike for himself, and for those whom 
he addressed. 

It is perhaps proper to say, that the age in which Dr. Kend- 
rick's character was matured, and much of his career spent, 
was one more observant than our own of the usages of civi- 
lity. Letter writers generally observed a more dignified and 
courteous address than is deemed befitting our more active 
and bustling age. Exemplifications of our statement could 
be found through the life which we are now sketching. 

The following letter, from the Rev. Andrew Ten Brook, 
now a minister under the United States Government to Ba- 
varia, serves to illustrate still further the social qualities, and 
accurate business habits of the man. 

" Allow me to say that I think Dr. Kendrick eminently 
showed one characteristic which I should like to see brought 
out in its full force in his memoir. He had found, more ex- 
actly than any person I ever knew, that happy medium 
between too much engrossment with the cares of this life, 
and that transcendental character which either incapacitates a 
man for minute attention to sublunary things, or leads him to 
despise them. His minute attention to domestic and social 
duties, and business matters, was not at the expense of time 
taken from the culture of piety, but was both the result of, 
and the tributary to his uniform fervor of religious feeling. 
There are very few religious men engaged in business for 
themselves, or as business agents for religious objects, who 
would not allow their minds to become secularized by it. Dr. 
Kendrick was an exception ; he never lost sight of the end 
in the means. His business and devotion were one. 



226 REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICI, D.D. 

" I was not a little interested and amused with an incident 
which occurred in transactions between him, as a business 
agent of the Education Society, and myself, showing the accu- 
racy of his recollection, and the delicacy of his feelings. I 
had sent him a draft for somewhere near the amount I owed 
the society, and asked him to notify me of the amount still 
due. He sent me a minute of the notes, in which he men- 
tioned one of one hundred and sixty-three dollars. I wrote 
him immediately that there was some mistake, that the other 
notes mentioned amounted to nearly what was due. He re- 
plied that the note was but one dollar and sixty-three cents. 
More than a year afterward, I visited Hamilton, on an anni- 
versary occasion. Dr. Kendrick was supposed to be near his 
death. His house thronged with those who supposed they 
were calling upon him for the last time. I could not allow 
myself to add much to the fatiguing effect of the throng, and 
called only for a few minutes, promising a longer visit in the 
ensuing vacation. After the mutual inquiries on meeting, he 
turned his head from the rest of the company to me, as I sat 
at the back-side of his bed, and said, ' Brother Ten Brook, I 
was very much mortified at that little mistake.' I had to ask 
1 what mistake V upon which he went on to give the circum- 
stances, and the exact amount involved. 

"Those who knew Dr. Kendrick only in the pulpit, have 
failed to see him in his most interesting positions. He was a 
sound preacher, there was weight in his sermons, but they did 
not show the man in that interesting light reflected from his 
conversations and letters. I had but little opportunity of 
knowing him, until about the time of my leaving Hamilton, 
or rather, after I left. His son in Detroit wrote him to send 
a pastor to that place. I was to graduate in about three 
months. To my supprise, he applied to me, and, much to my 
satisfaction, was with me the first Sabbath I spent in Detroit, 
in September of 1841. Two weeks from that time, I met him 
in the extreme west of Michigan, at the Baptist State Con- 
vention, and had his company back. Some incidents occurred 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 227 

which would illustrate his character. I will mention one. 
We had at one time, for a long stage, a drunken driver. He 
took upon the box with him an associate of the same character, 
and noise and profanity increased as they drank. While the 
stage stood at a post office, the driver passed near the door of 
the coach, and the Doctor spoke to him, as nearly as I can 
recollect, as follows : ' Young man, if any pious man should as 
often use the name of God, reverently, as you do profanely, 
you would think him a great fanatic. ' The young man looked 
up, having caught only a part of the remark, and stammered 
out an inquiry as to what was said, upon which the Doctor 
repeated the remark. His very appearance doubled the im- 
pression, and the two young men took their seats, and main- 
tained, for the rest of the way, a propriety of behavior which 
showed the influence of exalted religious character. 

" Some three weeks after the anniversary to which I 
alluded above, I was passing through Hamilton with my 
family on Saturday afternoon. I called to see Dr. Kendrick, 
and was easily prevailed upon to stay over the Sabbath, and 
I should be at a loss to select the two days of my life which 
ever left so deep an impression upon my mind. I mention 
not now the rich vein of piety which pervaded his conversa- 
tion, as that was much the same whatever subject was up, 
but the opening of his large views on education. The con- 
versation was somewhat personal, as he commenced with the 
reason which had induced him to wish my settlement in De- 
troit ; passed from that to the State University ; then to other 
institutions of the same kind, showing that he had taken a 
full survey of the field of education throughout the country; 
that he knew its condition, the dangers which threatened it, and 
the hopes which might be entertained in regard to it. This 
picture had affected his mind, and directed and stimulated his 
exertions even in matters in which no one suspected such a 
motive. So far as he had influence in settling the students 
who went forth from Hamilton, this motive had never been 
entirely without effect, and he knew, too, where nearly every 



228 KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

student had gone, and with the intensest interest had followed 
them to their fields of labor, and had the most accurate recol- 
lection of nearly all that he had ever known or heard in rela- 
tion to them." 

Substantially the same thing has been particularly ob- 
served by others. In the winter of 1846 a brother of the 
writer called upon Dr. Kendrick in his illness. This brother 
had journeyed somewhat extensively in the states of Illinois 
and Wisconsin, in the course of which travels it was his for- 
tune to meet with several of the alumni of Madison Univer- 
sity. In allusion to these he found invariably that the recol- 
lections of Dr. Kendrick were vivid, and that he could, from 
his memory, relate incidents of their lives, and point out 
peculiarities of their character, with an aptness both striking 
and discriminating. When the name of any person, especially 
in the ministry, was mentioned, the whole character of that 
individual seemed to rise up in his mind as if the true linea- 
ments of that character, in their minutest lights and shades, 
had been set in his memory by a daguerreotype. This habit 
of estimating men had acquired great strength with him, by 
being, for about thirty years, brought in constant intercourse 
with youthful candidates for the ministry, in whose culture, 
discipline, and maturity, he cherished the greatest possible 
interest. 

The following is from the pen of Mr. James Edmunds : — 
" My first intimate acquaintance with the late Dr. N. Ken- 
drick was in spending two days with him in visiting a church, 
of which I was a member in Western New York. When I 
was leaving him he followed me to my horse, and said, ' We 
have been praying for such a man as you fourteen years ; I 
have now found you ; you must leave your farm, go to Hamil- 
ton, and assist us in sustaining that institution.' I replied : 
' It is impossible, I must attend to my farm, I leave such 
labor to ministers.' He replied : ' We want laymen for such 
work, it is not the work for ministers. The Lord will not 
let you rest on your farm, you must do all you can for him, 



REV. NATHANIEL K END KICK, D. D. 229 

you will soon meet Jesus, who died for you, in the judgment.' 
Ko argument could have moved me to relinquish my settled 
plans of life but the solemnity of this appeal. I could not 
resist it. It carried me at last to Hamilton, and has never 
allowed me, with a satisfied conscience, to pursue my private 
business for twenty-six years. The view of the judgment 
that he impressed on my mind, in five minutes, has ever 
since made human praise or censure appear of little account. 
I was intimately associated with him for twelve years. We 
traveled much together, we were often in deep waters. He 
was characterized by a spirit of earnest prayer and unyielding- 
faith. There icas no guile in his lips — no sort of trickery 
in his management. He would not natter a man to get his 
money, when he needed that money ever so much. When 
the covetousness of men shut up all hope of success, and it 
seemed as if our young brethren must be driven from their 
studies for want of funds — at many such times have we 
retired to our room, and there in the deep silence of the night 
and at the early dawn of the morning, would he pour out his 
full soul, and pray for his beloved institution, with a holy 
earnestness and a subdued zeal which I have never seen 
equalled elsewhere. In no case do I remember passing 
through such a struggle without soon finding a way out of 
our difficulties." 



20 



230 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, I). D. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

Person — Family Characteristics — Counsellor — " Chatauque Council" — 
"Speculative Free Masonry" — Reproof — Corresponding Secretary — 
Solicitor — Titles — A Conservative — Leading Questions — Anniversa- 
ries — Tour to Michigan — Indian Missions — Extracts from his Journal 
— Family Bereavement. 

Before we pass to the last providential dealings of God 
with the man whose life we have thus far traced, we will 
group together a few more features of his character, and 
events of his life, to render the portraiture complete. 

From incidental allusions in the preceding pages the 
stranger might infer something as to his personal appearance. 
To use the language of one from whom we have already 
quoted, "he was one of nature's and of grace's noblemen, 
formed alike physically, intellectually and morally on a large 
and generous scale. In person he was tall and commanding, 
his form and face eminently fitted to inspire respect and 
veneration. His ample forehead indicated large mental capa- 
cities ; his mild, deep, blue eye spoke at once the benevolence 
of his heart, and the depth and acuteness of his intellect. 
His intellectual powers were of the noblest order." He was 
a fair sample of the numerous family whence he sprang, and 
exhibited its usual characteristics for several generations. It 
is the current and well-sustained testimony that " the Ken- 
dricks are a tall race of people, with fair complexion and blue 
eyes, noted for truth, probity and a high sense of honor ; 
having always an open hand for the needy, with this for their 
motto inscribed upon their family escutcheon, Virtue is 
Honor." 

Such favorable antecedents always awaken high hopes, 
and in the instance before us a long and useful life fully 
justified their indulgence. 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 231 

The cast of Mr. Kendrick's mind was such as to qualify 
him pre-eminently for a counsellor. He was accustomed to 
take broad and liberal views of all matters that came under 
his notice. He could not be one-sided, and yield to the bias 
of prejudice, or the claims of party. His nature repelled the 
thought of being governed or swayed by any thing save 
truth, and the loftiest motives that deserve a paramount place 
in determining every one's course. His mind was ever open 
to conviction, and ready to appreciate the smallest beam of 
light, from whatever source it might be derived. He had 
the patience to bear with the infirmities of the weak, and to 
hear and weigh the reasons which aggrieved brethren might 
have to offer. The forbearance which he showed towards 
the errors of brethren or their differences of opinion, and the 
solidity, integrity and inflexibility of his judgment imparted 
great weight to his decisions with all parties. 

One who was conversant with the life and character of Dr. 
Kendrick for more than thirty years, and who sat with him 
in many councils, says, "that, possessing a comprehensive 
and deliberate mind, and on difficult and intricate questions 
being always the last to speak, this language might be applied 
to his advice, ' Unto him men gave ear, and waited, and kept 
silence at his counsel. After his words they spake not again ; 
and his speech dropped upon them.' He had the peculiar 
faculty of wielding the wisdom of a whole council to the best 
advantage, to secure a decision in his own style of thought. 
His decisions evinced wisdom and close scrutiny." 

There are to be found among his papers the records of the 
proceedings of several councils, some of which pertained to 
difficult cases of discipline, and others to doctrinal points, a 
denial of which involved the peace and welfare of many 
churches. In the earlier part of his ministry he was fre- 
quently called to serve as scribe in these ecclesiastical bodies, 
and thus it happens that copies of their proceedings are in 
his own handwriting, and preserved with his other papers. 
From these we are furnished with palpable evidence of the 



232 eev. 

intricate difficulties that were, from time to time, brought 
before him, and also of the prudence and judgment that he 
evinced in situations at once the most responsible, delicate 
and trying. 

During the excitement upon " Speculative Free Masonry" 
that began in the autumn of 1826, and continued for several 
years, extending into many states of the Union, but affecting 
more especially the state of New York, this man so highly 
prized for his sage counsel, was often called upon to render 
the fruits of his wisdom. The subject was neither to be 
ruled out of politics nor religion. Party issues grew out of 
it at the ballot-box, and churches were more or less distracted. 
The wisdom of the greatest leaders in Israel could not pre- 
vent divisions. Under the meridian of western New York, 
discussions in church and state reached an intense heat. 

In the winter of 1831, in the month of February, Mr. 
Kendrick was called to the " Chatauque Council" held at 
Fredonia. It was deemed necessary to pass out of the 
infected district to obtain persons that commanded the confi- 
dence of churches and associations, and whose decisions 
would be impartial and sanctioned by divine truth. For this 
purpose, brethren were called at the distance of two hundred 
and fifty miles, embracing the now sainted Peck, Bennett, 
Leonard and Galusha, and others that still survive. The 
troubles which they were invited to consider were serious, 
and had divided every church in the association. Mr. Ken- 
drick was appointed moderator of the body, and it is no 
disparagement to the excellent brethren associated with him, 
to say, he was the presiding genius and ruling spirit of the 
council. Those familiar with its tedious investigations, 
prolonged through nine days and evenings, need only to be 
reminded, that the matters presented were environed with no 
ordinary difficulties. Suffice it to say, the brethren fixed 
upon the " Whitesboro Resolutions," as the basis of recon- 
ciliation and harmony. It was deemed by some the most 
important decision ever made in the state by our denomi- 



REV. NATHANIEL KEXDRICK, D. D. 233 

nation. Many years have passed since these breaches in 
Zion were healed, yet aged brethren in the region of Fredonia 
now bear testimony that the peace of the churches and the 
association, was due, rather to the wise, gentle and fatherly 
counsels, together with the personal influence of Mr. Ken- 
drick, than to the above named platform ; several times but for 
him, the council itself would have been broken into fragments, 
and the desired result would thus have been totally defeated. 

As he was at one period of his life somewhat identified 
with the Masonic Order, it is but justice to state, that he was 
one of the delegates to the conference in which ten or eleven 
associations were represented, held at Whitesboro, October 
22-23, in 1829. This conference framed the resolutions 
referred to above. It may be inferred however, that no new 
opinions were entertained upon the general subject, none at 
least strikingly different from what he had for many years 
cherished. For we* find that a council held at Addison, Vt., 
February 20th 1815, of which he was clerk, and the Rev. 
Aaron Leland, moderator, incorporated substantially the same 
principle in its decision as that which was made the basis of 
action at Whitesboro fourteen years later. 

It was not in matters affecting the peace and prosperity of 
churches alone, that our departed father was appealed to for 
counsel, but individuals falling under Christian censure, or 
becoming involved in personal difficulties sought the benefit 
of his advice. Few if any, could administer rebuke with 
greater plainness and fidelity without exciting displeasure. 
This arose, either from the confidence reposed in the purity 
of his motives, or from the affection cherished for him, which 
effectually robbed reproof of its sting ; illustrating most 
happily the words of the Psalmist, " Let the righteous smite 
me ; it shall be a kindness : and let him reprove me ; it shall 
be an excellent oil which shall not break my head." 

It would surprise many to know how great the number 
that consulted him when placed in doubtful and trying 
positions, and how wide the range of interests upon which 

20* 



234 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

his merits as a counsellor were admitted. Lengthy epistles 
now among his papers, are sure testimonials to his widely 
conceded capacity as an able adviser. 

In discharging the duties of corresponding secretary, he was 
required to put in the possession of the several agents the 
most explicit and direct information, that they might work to 
the best advantage. This devolved upon Mr. Kendrick the 
necessity of very extensive correspondence. He sought to 
afford the agents in the society's employ every facility for the 
prosecution of their work, by apprising them of every item 
of interest connected with the school, and furnishing them 
data from its past history, which would aid them in the fur- 
therance of their work. Nor was his labor ended with giving 
to this and that agent a statistical view of the resources and 
wants of the seminary. He gave directions what to do, and 
how to do it. He knew men far and near, and his advice in 
the manner of approaching them, was never out of place. 
One constant habit with him reveals to us the ground of his 
unshaken confidence. It was this, the inculcation of a prayer- 
ful spirit in the minds of the agents as they executed their 
work. Some might suppose, that engrossed as he necessarily 
was with the routine of business, that when he had made men- 
tion of secular items, he would have neither time nor inclina- 
tion to observe any thing further. But so habitual was his own 
dependence upon God, and so constant his resort to him in 
prayer, for his blessing to rest upon every branch of the 
enterprise, that it was in perfect keeping with his character 
and daily practice, to urge upon them all, to act by their 
prayers. These letters were not written for the public eye, 
yet in them, we have the indisputable evidence that he was 
actuated by a deep sense of his reliance upon an unseen One. 
When men seemed to lack sympathy for the cause in which 
he had embarked, he turned unto God and seemed ever to 
feel that he would raise up friends for the support of the 
institution. 

The labor in this department was exacting and severe, 



REV. NATHANIEL KEXDRICK, D. D. 235 

because it required such constant study, and the greatest 
promptness to meet the duties imposed at the proper time ; 
for otherwise there was an irreparable loss sustained. The 
failure to send by the first departing mail, would occasion 
detention and involve the agents in very great embarrass- 
ments, hence his work had to be done with dispatch. 

Moreover, the correspondence soliciting the patronage of 
able brethren, was very extensive. This delicate business 
was ever conducted upon principles of candor, Christian 
courtesy, and at the same time with great fidelity. He cer- 
tainly did not fail to make an impression that the institution 
had just claims upon the benevolent ; and he presented the 
whole subject in such a light, that only strong reasons would 
allow the person to decline his invitation to patronize the 
object. He was not always successful in securing the object 
for which he wrote, but the work itself was just as faithfully 
done as though thousands of dollars were to be the immedi- 
ate fruit of the effort. To perform tasks of this nature re- 
quired great patience and faith. 

As a personal solicitor of patronage to the institution, he 
was every thing that could be desired. He often found it 
necessary to meet objections. He did not look with disdain 
upon those who raised them, but condescended to take up and 
answer their difficulties, one by one ; and although it might 
be a thankless task, yet he parted with those who refused to 
give, in good feeling, and was careful not to place any weapon 
at their command which might be turned to the injury of the 
cause. Thus he never created enemies to the object which 
he advocated, and thus so far from rearing barriers to a sec- 
ond visit, he paved the way for a cordial welcome. His 
candor won from others the belief that he was honest. His 
coolness, self possession, and enlightened views, elicited con- 
fidence. His enthusiasm was regulated by prudence, and 
controlled by judgment. He made no extravagant repre- 
sentations, and was therefore never embarrassed by the result 



236 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

of his plans, neither involving himself nor his friends in the 
meshes of his own manufacture. 

From the sphere of Dr. Kendrick's labors, the discipline 
which he acquired, and the habits of study which he fostered, 
it will be seen, that while he was not learned, in the strict 
sense of the term, he was still well read in his profession, and 
possessed a large share of general intelligence. He was 
well versed in the knowledge of men generally, as well as in 
books pertaining to his line of investigations. As a merited 
tribute to his attainments as a self-educated man, he was com- 
plimented with an honorary degree of Master of Arts, in 
1819, from Brown University ; and his standing as a theolo- 
gian was indicated by having the degree of Doctor of Di- 
vinity conferred upon him from the same source four years 
afterwards. 

From the admirable symmetry of his character, he was 
effectually fortified against the danger of selecting any fanati- 
cal hobby. He was yet in favor of every true reform, and he 
believed that to ensure success, the gospel must be the basis 
of every improving change. No apostles of progress, how- 
ever enthusiastic or sanguine, could inspire him with confi- 
dence in their measures unless they were believing advocates 
of the Christian religion. As already hinted, his nature was 
highly conservative, and his course upon the leading ques- 
tions of the day savored of this character. A sense of duty 
often constrained him to repress the indiscreet zeal of some, 
whom he saw to be defeating rather than obtaining the ob- 
jects proposed to themselves. He was occasionally com- 
pelled to witness things that were painful to him. Cherishing 
a strong love for sound doctrine, he deplored departures from 
it as calamitous to the church, and particularly unfortunate 
to the ministry. In addition to the threatening invasions of 
error, which excited so much alarm at one period, and which 
has already been noticed in the preceding pages, there was at 
a later day the leaven of modern perfectionism in the sem- 
inary. Although its influence was limited, yet it gave Dr. 



EEV. NATHANIEL IENDRICK, D. D. 237 

Kendrick great trouble. Wherever the heresy was accepted, 
it was adhered to with pertinacious tenacity. This, or any 
other departure from sound faith in those who had once en- 
joyed the advantages of his own instruction, was particularly 
distressing to him, and he sought if possible to recover the 
victims from the mistaken views which they had too unguard- 
edly adopted. 

He seemed to apprehend in every case the evils resulting 
therefrom. Too often had he been solicited to impart his 
counsel and lend his influence for the purpose of healing divi- 
sions in churches caused by the. dissemination of false doc- 
trines, to be indifferent to their propagation. He took pains 
to manifest a kind and forbearing spirit towards the advocates 
of error, and sought their reclamation to " the form of sound 
words," and "the old paths" of orthodoxy. 

Dr. Kendrick took high ground upon the observance of the 
Lord's Day, and advocated the repeal of the law by Congress 
that requires the transportation of the mail, and the opening 
of the post-office on that day. These are his words — 

" No Christian nation can trample, with impunity, upon 
the laws of God. God has ordained a Sabbath, and com- 
manded that no work shall be done on that day ; but our 
nation has a law against it. This people refuse, by their 
legislative enactments, to recognize the law of the Sabbath, 
and send out their servants with the mail every Sabbath day, 
over the whole length and breadth of the land." 

Upon the great leading questions of public interest his 
influence was cast into the right scale, and his heart and hand 
were ready to patronize every branch of benevolent labor. 

He took a deep interest in the anniversaries of our public 
bodies. He was a member of the old Triennial Convention, 
not one of its originators, but meeting with it for the first 
time in 1826, when it convened with the Oliver Street Bap- 
tist Church, New York City, and was present at each subse- 
quent anniversary save two, so long as it remained unchanged. 
The occasions excepted were in 1829 and 1844, when the 



238 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

Convention met in Philadelphia. After this body was trans- 
formed into the American Baptist Missionary Union, being 
made a life member by the courtesy of the First Baptist 
Church in Hamilton, his interest in the cause of foreign 
missions continued unabated. 

His position in the formation of the American and Foreign 
Bible Society was a decided one. He approved the principle 
upon which it was organized, and defended its operations. 
He was also early identified with the Baptist Missionary 
Convention of the State of New York, being made one of its 
directors immediately after the Hamilton Baptist Missionary 
Society was merged in that body. 

Dr. Kendrick's interest in all missionary and benevolent 
organizations was abundantly testified by his efforts to be 
present at their anniversaries, and still more by the sacrifices 
made to secure their highest efficiency in carrying out the 
purposes of their creation. He made a tour to Michigan in 
the autumn of 1836 to aid in the organization of a State Con- 
vention, and to visit the Ottaw Mission, at Grand Rapids. 
In this tour he was accompanied by a fellow laborer in the 
cause of ministerial education, the Rev. Elon Galusha. 
These lengthy journeys over land and lake were only in 
keeping with the habits of earlier life to promote the cause 
of the Redeemer. 

When the initiatory steps were taken for the establishment 
of a mission, both among the Oneida Indians, and the Tusca- 
roras of New York State, under the auspices of the Hamilton 
Baptist Missionary Society, Dr. Kendrick was one of the 
committee to whose care that responsible duty was entrusted. 
Living but a short distance from the Onedia tribe, it involved 
no great sacrifice of time, to determine upon the course 
requisite to inaugurate a mission school, and preaching 
services, which continued with flattering prospects until the 
mission was removed to Tonawanda. But the effort to plant 
Christianity among the western tribes of the state, was a 
task, not so easily accomplished. In September, 1819, Mr. 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 239 

Kendrick, accompanied by Deacon Olmsted, of Hamilton, set 
out to meet with an Indian Council at Buffalo, for the pur- 
pose of paving the way for permanent missionary labor 
amongst these sons of the forest. This successful embassy 
engrossed about three weeks, requiring the performance of a 
journey of five hundred miles, with the usual fatigues inci- 
dent to private travel. 

It may present to the reader a just idea of the man's 
habitual self-depreciation, and the spirit of his uniform piety, 
if we here furnish two or three specimens from his journal 
entered upon his birth days. 

" Middlebury, April 22c?, 1816. — " This day I am thirty- 
nine years old. The last year I have preached one hundred 
and thirty-one sermons, besides being able to attend church 
meetings and conferences. I have not been kept from the 
house of God by ill-health a single Sabbath during the year. 
I have been able to" preach and have preached from two to 
three sermons every Sabbath, excepting two, when I 
preached only one in a day. I have taught a school of about 
fifty scholars six months of the time. I have attended the 
ordination of Brother Fisher in Brandon, and three councils to 
settle difficulties in churches, one in Hubbardton, one in 
Thetford in a Congregational Church, and one in Swanton. I 
went one journey to Lansingburgh in July with my declining 
companion. I was up much during the nights with her until 
October 11th, when it pleased God to remove her by death. 
I spent four weeks with the Legislature of this state. — The 
past year has been marked with some of the severest trials of 
my life, chiefly on account of being deprived of my partner, 
who left me with two little children. I have thought God 
was with me at times and sustained me by his mercy. But 
alas ! my heart has been far from God much of the time. I 
have been unfruitful, and my labors have been apparently of 
but little use. O that it may please God to revive in me the 
good work of his grace, and afford me more of his divine 
presence in the closet, in the study and in the pulpit. If I am 



240 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

permitted to live another year, that I may live more to God 
than I have the past year, and may it please God to visit 
his people here with his Spirit and quicken and add to them 
of such as shall be saved." 

" Eaton, N. Y., April, 22d, 1.81T.— " A pleasant morn- 
to-day I am forty years old : few and evil have been my days. 
Alas ! how little have I done for God, and how little have I 
a prospect of doing. Ma} 7- it please God to glorify the riches 
of his grace in the pardon of such a sinful worm. I have 
been permitted to see much of his goodness and grace the 
last }^ear. Twenty-five have been added by baptism to the 
small church at Middlebury, with which I labor, and I have 
baptized about twelve that have joined with other churches. 

" I have seen more extensive revivals the past year than I 
ever saw before in my life. I have thought sometimes I 
have been a partaker of the blessing myself. But oh ! how 
I have failed of rendering suitable returns to God. My poor 
performances have appeared in some instances to be a means 
of awakening sinners ; but this to me is astonishing. 

" May it please God to take the possession and control of 
my heart, and possess it with life and love. I fail much in 
prayer, and especially in the closet. that God would 
aiford his presence there. I am now two hundred miles 
from my dear people at M., and do not know but God will 
call me to this part of his vineyard. May he let me know 
his will. I have heard a sweet sermon this afternoon from 
Bro. John Peck, on the gospel's joyful sound." 

After over twenty years added to the above period, he is 
still far from entertaining exalted views of himself. The 
extract which follows is from a letter to his children in Detroit. 

" I have but a few days more to finish my earthly pilgrim- 
age, and if I can be of any use to the Saviour's cause, I wish 
to spare no pains. To-day I am sixty-two years old. Alas ! 
how frail and short my life has been. It seems more like a 
vapor than a substance. I am daily more indebted to grace, 
and much remains to be done to subdue the depravity of my 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 24 L 

heart and fit me for the enjoyment of God in his heavenly 
kingdom. I have never obtained the victory over my doubts, 
nor do I altogether lose my hope." 

In concluding this chapter, it will be proper and instructive 
to refer to his resignation to the divine will under severe 
family affliction. His bereavements as they have occurred in 
the removal of two endeared partners and a child, have already 
been noticed. In the winter of 1841, Mr. Kendrick suffered 
the loss of his son Cotton Mather, a youth of about nineteen 
years, and of decided talent. This stroke of divine provi- 
dence would have been heavy to bear under any cir- 
cumstances. It was doubly severe, because sudden and 
unexpected. Besides, the disease which prostrated its 
victim, obscured the sufferer's reason, and removed him 
while he was mostly if not entirely unconscious of his last 
change. Nor was this the sorest of the trial. The son had 
once given, it was thought, bright evidence of conversion, but 
had subsequently declined in religious emotion, and relapsed 
into indifference. The clouded intellect debarred the father 
from communion with his son in that anxious hour, and he 
was compelled to commit him, whom he had so often 
counseled into the hands of God, and find his only refuge in 
prayer. It was in accordance with the wishes of the 
bereaved parent that the facts above noted were stated by 
Professor Maginnis, who conducted the funeral services, and 
the affecting circumstances of the sudden decease left to bear 
home their own admonition to the living. The sanctuary 
was on that occasion a Bochim, and the solemn providence 
seemed to be owned at once of God, as the direct means of a 
revival of religion in the college of which the deceased was a 
member, and of which a large number were present to mingle 
their unfeigned sorrow with the mourning circle. 

These impressive services were held upon the Lord's Day ; 
and in the faculty's usual method of conducting daily chapel 
exercises in the seminary by rotation, it always devolved 
upon Dr. Kendrick to lead them on Monday evening. He 

21 



242 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

was present and officiated the day after his son's burial 
Whether by design or by accident we cannot say, he read the 
portion of Scripture in which stood the text which had been 
used upon the recent funeral occasion. Tt was as follows : 

" I know, Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that 
thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me. 

" Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, 
according to thy word unto thy servant." 

The strong man was overcome, and his deep emotion inter- 
rupted his reading, while many tears freely shed by the 
students, gave evidence that their hearts were sympathizing 
with their venerated instructor in his weighty affliction. 

It is wonderful to discover the fullness of his consolation 
even here as appears from his own expression. He said " he 
felt reconciled to Mather's death when he reflected that God 
loved him more than he could." 



EEV. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K, D. D. 243 



CHAPTER XXIY. 

Cause of his Illness — Confined to his Room — Journey to New York 
City — Surgical Examination — Affecting Scene — Interview with Reli- 
gious Friends — Return— Difficulties Increased — Last Visit to the In- 
stitution—Letter from Dr. Church — His own Letters — Letter from 
Professor Bliss — His own Letters. 

The long and painful illness of Dr. Kendrick began with 
an accidental fall, which happened in December, 1844. While 
on his way from the residence of Professor Eaton to his own 
home, in descending the hill, the surface of which was covered 
with ice, he was precipitated to the ground with great vio- 
lence. The fall was so severe as to unman him for awhile, 
and so unexpected, that his back and hips received its full 
force. No serious consequences, however, were anticipated 
from this accident. But, about six weeks afterwards, he began 
to suffer slight pains in the lower part of his back, which iD- 
creased until their intensity interrupted his sleep. His labors, 
however, were not suspended by these sufferings through the 
winter, yet in the spring he was compelled to discontinue them 
abroad. Other symptoms appeared of a serious character. 
Local inflammation set in, so great as to render the slightest 
covering painful. He resorted to medical treatment, but with 
no perceptible benefit. The case was one of great obscurity 
to able and skillful physicians, and left his attending surgeon, 
though a man of eminence in his profession, in doubt whether 
the disease was confined to the nerves and muscles, or ex- 
tended to the bones. Desirous of doing all that could be 
done to remove the difficulty, about a year after the injury, 
he had a seton inserted in his back, which occasioned addi- 
tional inflammation in the affected parts. He was now com- 
pelled to take his bed, and the only respite which he had was 
to walk occasionally about his room. The suffering from his 



244 EEV. NATHANIEL KEN BRICK, D. D. 

back was attended with other difficulties of a complicated 
character, which put him in extreme agony, so as to allow 
him but little sleep. Up to this time his case was not looked 
upon as hopeless. At this period many of his friends strongly 
recommended the hydropathic treatment. His own mind was 
inclined to make trial of the system, but not without proper 
advisers. In June following, he consulted with his brother, 
Thomas Kendrick, M. D., as to the probable effect of the 
water treatment. The opinion of his brother was, that if 
the bones of the back were not diseased, the hydropathic prac- 
tice would probably benefit him ; if they were, he frankly told 
him he would not be cured. The patient inquired, " How 
shall I ascertain this point ?" " Go with me," was the reply, 
" to New York, and let Professor Parker examine your back 
by cutting through the integuments down to the bone, and he 
can tell you all about it. " 

To this proposed measure, another brother present, who 
was possessed of strong sympathetic feeling and nervous ex- 
citability, remarked, "it is inhuman to advise such a journey." 
But the patient resolved at once to carry out the advice, be- 
lieving that it could be done without any additional suffering. 
His own mind devised the method of reaching New York 
City, with the least possible fatigue and suffering to himself. 
It was this ; to be borne on his bed by canal to Utica, by rail- 
road to Troy, and thence to New York by steamboat, and he 
wished to start in three days, provided the brother who sug- 
gested the journey, would accompany him there and back. 

Arrangements were made to set out at the proposed time ; 
not, however, without making this movement a subject of 
prayer, and asking the blessing of God upon the step. His 
friends gathered around him, moved to tears at the thought 
of the painful errand for which he left his home, yet he took 
his departure with his usual cheerfulness, calmly resigned to 
the will of God, and trustfully awaiting the issue of this 
journey, so wholly unlike his former numerous visits to New 
York. 



KEV. NATHANIEL KEXDEICK, D. D. 2-45 

The journey was made in due time, and his boarding house 
selected in Broadway, where eveiy want could be promptly 
met. On the day after his arrival, the attending brother 
called upon Professor Parker, who came and examined him, 
and made an engagement to operate upon the injured part 
on the following day, attended by Professor Watts. Accord- 
ingly, at the appointed time, the operation was performed by- 
cutting through the integuments of the back down to the 
vertebrae. On exposing the bones, they were found to be 
much decayed, porous, like a honey comb, and destitute of 
vitality. The operation, we hardly need say, was extremely 
painful, yet not a groan escaped the lips of the agonized 
patient. 

After dressing the wound the surgeons retired into an 
adjoining room for the purpose of washing their instruments, 
and also to apprise the friends fully of the condition and 
prospects of the patient. Dr. Parker, addressing the brother 
that had suggested the examination, remarked, " You have 
seen the condition of the vertebrae ; they are dead, and there 
is no possibility of cure. Tell your brother the facts, for I 
cannot do it." To this he at once replied, " My brother will 
ask a full development of the case from you, sir, and would 
be unwilling to have you leave until you have disclosed the 
worst features to him." He assured him that he would find 
his patient perfectly tranquil in apprehension of death ; and 
suggested that a few moments' conversation with him, upon 
the themes of life and death, would readily prepare the way 
for what he felt it necessary to communicate to the sufferer. 
Dr. Parker then consented to break the matter to him. 

It demands an eye-witness to sketch the scene that ensued. 
There were a dozen or more relatives and interested friends 
present, watching with breathless anxiety the emotions with 
which the medical opinions would be received. All were in 
tears, and none in that moment had perfect control of his 
feelings save the man of God now placed in the near and 
certain prospect of the eternal world. He received the 

21* 



246 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

tidings without the slightest alarm. The announcement of 
a fatal result did not even break the serenity of his mind, so 
profound was that peace which he enjoyed in the Saviour, so 
unshaken was his confidence in him in whom he had be- 
lieved. The scene ended ; and the errand upon which he 
came now disposed of, he gave direction to have his bills 
incurred in the city discharged, and every thing in readiness 
to return to Troy, on his homeward way, in the evening boat. 
He also desired, if it accorded with the wishes of the land- 
lady, that a short season of prayer might be held in his room 
at three o'clock that afternoon, and to have her recently 
widowed daughter present, and such other friends as might 
be willing to spend a little time in devotion before he re- 
turned to his home. At the appointed time, the room was 
filled with dear friends, who came, not to see a stranger, but 
one long known and well known to them. After religious 
conversation with several individuals, he led the devotions 
on the occasion in a touching and melting prayer. Says one 
who joined in that solemn and affecting service, — " When I 
call to mind that prayer, I regard it as the prayer of a 
righteous man ; and to see his manly form prostrated upon 
a bed of sickness, suffering under a fatal disease, his angelic 
countenance beaming with peculiar lustre, and his sparkling 
eyes radiant with the light of revelation, and with a glorious 
hope of soon being a partaker of that heavenly inheritance 
which every righteous man so much desires, was enough to 
render me submissive to the will of Glod." 

The result of this examination by surgeons of such emi- 
nence, forbade further resort to curative remedies ; and the 
recourse to water treatment was therefore not attempted. 
The journey homeward was immediately entered upon, and 
completed after an absence of two weeks. Before a man of 
naturally robust habits, and unusually vigorous constitution, 
was now placed the probable certainty that he must waste 
away by a gradual and painful dissolution. 

From the first of May, 1846, the suffering patient was com- 



EEV. NATHANIEL K E N D E I C K, D. D. 247 

pellecl to lie the whole time on his left side, for his right limb 
had become so much affected as to forbid reclining upon it, 
and during the entire summer he was barely able to walk 
short distances, but could not sit in a chair or bear the 
slightest pressure against the back. His right limb con- 
tinued to fail, and at length it became contracted, so that in 
October following he could bear no weight upon it whatever. 
Through the winter he lay helpless, wholly confined to his 
bed and compelled to recline upon his left side. In this con- 
dition he continued gradually and almost imperceptibly to 
decline ; indeed, as his constitution was sound, aside from 
the injury occasioned by the fall, it rendered the struggle 
with the great foe the more prolonged and severe. It was 
like a long siege against 'the most strongly fortified city, 
where the ample means of defense serve only to protract 
and intensify the sufferings of the beleaguered town, since 
it must inevitably surrender at last. It was a case in which 
one member suffered, and all the members suffered with it, 
until amid dissolving agony the very throne of life became 
the seat of death. 

Once more during this long and painful season of suffering 
he was permitted to visit, on a memorable occasion, the insti- 
tution he so much loved. It was on an occasion referred to 
by Rev. George W. Anderson, one of the Alumni, in a letter 
under date of August 16, 1846, to one of our religious journals. 
Many others will remember the scene, at the close of a session 
which had been marked by a memorable outpouring of the 
Holy Spirit. 

" During the winter fears were entertained that he would 
soon be removed ; but towards the end of the winter session, 
his health seemed to be improving. I shall never forget the 
solemn effect of his appearance in the chapel of the institu- 
tion, on occasion of the administering of the Lord's Supper, 
the last Lord's Day of the winter term. I would almost as 
soon have expected to see a visitant from the graveyard 
come in our midst. The last time I had seen him was some 



248 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

weeks before on his bed of suffering. I had watched during 
the night with him, and never then expected to see him out 
of his home again. He, however, was once more permitted 
to leave his bed and home ; yet it was only a temporary relief 
that he obtained. 

" On my visit to-day, I found that his disease has been 
making constant progress. He is now able to sit up only for 
a short time ; and is compelled to lie wholly on one side. He 
suffers much pain ; but his mind is clear and vigorous, and 
his spirit rests with calm composure on the promises of Him 
whom he has so long served. * * * The cause of minis- 
terial education in our denomination, and the cause of Christ 
at large, owe much to his long and zealous labors. His 
influence on the ministers that have gone out from Hamilton 
to labor in different parts of the world can never be known 
upon earth." 

When it became generally known that he was suffering 
greatly, Dr. Kendrick received many letters expressive of the 
deepest sympathy in his affliction, and also of the warmest 
solicitude about the issue of his sickness. The following is 
from Dr. Church, then of Rochester and now of New York 
City. It bears date Jan. 12, 1846 : 

" My dear Doctor Kendrick : 

"I have just learned, with the deepest solicitude, that 
you are suffering under a severe indisposition, the issue of 
which human foresight cannot determine. Had I never en- 
joyed the intimacy of your personal acquaintance and friend- 
ship, such intelligence could not fail to affect me deeply, in 
view of the highly important relations which you sustain to 
the interests of religion in the world. But when to these 
are added the recollection of my great indebtedness to your 
teaching and your influence at an interesting period of my 
life, and the truly parental and filial regard which has long 
subsisted between us, I confess your sickness touches my 
tenderest sensibilities, and makes me involuntarily exclaim, 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 249 

! that I could do something, though it were the merest 
trifle, to smooth your pathway to the grave. You have this 
to comfort you, that however low the estimate you place upon 
your own services, there are hundreds who, like myself, feel 
that they owe more to you, under God, than to almost any 
other living man. You have put them upon a track of men- 
tal improvement, and of theological learning, which, but for 
your agency, they might never have reached. I name these 
things as causes of gratitude to him from whom all good 
has come, that Christ has been, so far, honored by your life, 
and we trust he will be by your death, whenever that event 
shall arrive." 

The copious extracts which are inserted in the remaining 
part of this, and the following chapters, are mostly selected 
from letters addressed to his children in Detroit; the re- 
mainder have been- chosen from those written to intimate 
friends. The biographer has deemed this method the best to 
give his readers a just idea of Dr. Kendrick's physical condi- 
tion, and the tone of that remarkable Christian experience 
which he enjoyed during his years of confinement. 
August 22d, 1846, he thus writes to his children : 
" I make another attempt at writing you a few lines, 
although under more afflicting circumstances than when I 
wrote you last. I have been suffering more pain in my 
back, where the bone is decaying, than I have been before. 
It is more difficult for me to walk, and yet I attempt it a 
number of times a day, as the only relief to my left side, to 
which I am confined in bed, not being able to lie on the 
other. I think I am gradually wasting away, and yet I may 
have months of affliction allotted me before I am released 
from the body. There is a foundation for hope in the gospel, 
permanent as the promises and the oath of God, and I cher- 
ish the hope, that through matchless grace in the Saviour, 

1 may be found on that rock at last. I know it will be 
marvelous mercy if so vile a sinner is saved, but the grace 
of God is all-sufficient. I feel calm and confiding in the 



250 EEV. 

Lamb that was slain, the most of my time, and yet have 
great hardness of heart, which the Spirit alone can remove. 
I will keep you advised of my condition, from time to time, 
and shall be pleased to see you again, if God will, before 
leaving the world." 

To the same he writes, September 11th, 1846 : 

"Very dear Silas and Fanny: 

"I am yet this side the grave, in the care of a kind God 
and Saviour, who, I hope, after my enduring all that infinite 
wisdom and goodness may appoint unto me in this life, may 
be pleased, through infinite grace, to grant me an inherit- 
ance among all them that are sanctified. I ask not to be in 
any other hands, but to be submissive in all things. My 
sufferings are somewhat increased from three weeks ago. I 
am still confined to my left side, with more pain in my back 
and right limb, the latter of which has hardly strength to 
sustain my weight. I attempt to walk my room daily with 
help. I may linger yet for months, or may be called in 
much less time to relinquish my connection with this life. 
With reference to your visiting me once more, I can only 
say, as I said before, make it convenient to yourselves while 
sailing is good, or even beyond that, if no material alteration 
in my case should occur, and it would best accommodate 
you." 

The contemplated visit he received in the ensuing month. 

We here insert an extract from a letter addressed to the 
Rev. James J. Woolsey, Norwalk, Connecticut, dated Sep- 
tember 12th, 1846. The paragraphs, like many in his exten- 
sive correspondence, evince the unflagging interest which he 
cherished in the university, and also the elevated tone of 
piety which he habitually cultivated. 

"Our watchword is 'onward,'' and yet the burden of sus- 
taining the interest is increasing. The reflex influence of the 
alumni, which is increasing, is truly cheering. The fruits of 



KEY. NATHANIEL K END RICK, D.IK 251 

jour ministry which you hav,e directed here, are among our 
choicest young men. 

" I would gladly respond to the whole of your letter, so 
full of interest, but my condition compels me to be brief. 
Your sympathies for my afflictions is gratefully acknowledged, 
but your desires for my restoration, I apprehend, can never 
be realized. I have been confined to my bed since December, 
unable to sit up, and now unable to walk. My sufferings are 
severe, from an injury in the lower part of the back, occa- 
sioned by a fall a year ago last December, and from nervous 
affections, which have obliged me to lie on my left side for 
the last four months, and allow me very little sleep. I may 
hold out for months longer, but the case forbids all hope of 
recovery. Your happy allusion to the fountains of mercy 
opened in the gospel, afforded me a fresh spring of joy, and 
I think I can say my hope is in the precious Saviour. His 
gospel never appeared more rich and glorious, or more worthy 
of all acceptation, than it does now. What a precious theme 
to preach ! It must be published in all the world ; aside from 
this there is no salvation. I hope you will long be spared 
for this glorious work. I would gladly say more, but my 
strength fails. Help me with your prayers. Be faithful 
unto death, and you will receive a crown of life. Farewell ! 
my dear brother in Christ, I hope ere long to meet you 
among the redeemed, around the throne of the Lamb. 
"Your affectionate brother, 

"KATHL. XEXDRICK." 

The following, about three weeks later, addressed to Mrs. 
H. E. Thompson, shows no material change : — 

" It gives me pleasure to hear of the continued mercies of 
our covenant-keeping God to your infirm and afflicted family. 
Give my love to that dear doctor, and tell him I have him in 
grateful and prayerful remembrance. I hope, beyond this 
life, to see him freed from the nature and effects of sin, beau- 
tified with robes of righteousness, in the full fruition of God 



252 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

and the Lamb. In the end you will see both the wisdom 
and goodness of God, in making you a ministering spirit to 
that dear man and his family. I can write but few words ; I 
am much worse than when you were here. I have lost the 
use of my right limb, and have become helpless. The work 
of dissolution is painfully progressing, and I know not how 
long I am to remain in the flesh. My hope, and help, and 
rejoicing, are all in God and the Lamb." 

The state of Dr. Kendrick's mind is further reflected in the 
following extract from a letter, bearing date November ltth, 
1846, and written by one of the alumni, Professor George 
B. Bliss, Lewisburg University, at that time pastor of the 
Baptist church, New Brunswick, New Jersey. After an allu- 
sion to his anticipated death, the letter proceeds thus : 

" I speak thus freely of your departure from the earth, be- 
cause I have heard from various sources, not only that this 
event is sadly anticipated by your friends, but that you your- 
self are awaiting its approach. Without any intimations of 
the state of your mind in these circumstances, I should have 
been quite confident that the Father of mercies and God of 
all comfort would comfort his servant in this tribulation, and 
prove his grace sufficient for him. My short ministry, how- 
ever uneventful otherwise, has brought me often to the death- 
bed of the saints, and there I have seen some of the finest 
illustrations of the grace of God, and the most encouraging ful- 
fillment of his promises. Though passing through the valley 
and shadow of death, they have feared no evil, because Jesus 
has been with them every one, and led them safely by his 
kind hand. With them most truly at evening time it was 
light. Those who had been most timid, were enabled now 
to ask in triumph, ' death where is thy sting V But 
while I might reasonably have calculated on your enjoying 
similar supports, I have been extremely glad to hear that 
such was actually the fact. I have heard that in the furnace 
of your trial, you have had a glorious presence with you, 
such as is only vouchsafed in the furnace, to protect you from 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 253 

all harm. I have even been told that you seemed, through 
God's mercy, to have come into the land of Beulah, where 
the sun shineth night and day. Blessed be the Lord who 
hath showed you his marvellous kindness." 

The extract, which is given below, affords a clue to the 
indefatigable labors which he performed, notwithstanding his 
enfeebled and suffering state. The letter is addressed to his 
son, dated Hamilton, December 9th; 1846. 

" Very little perceivable change in my case has occurred 
since you left, except an abatement of the nervous pains and 
some part of the time less pain in the back. I am now suf- 
fering in the back as much as at any time. I have had more 
sleep for the past two weeks than usual. On the whole I do 
not perceive that I have lost ground since you were here, and 
in some respects a little improved. It will be a year the 
fifteenth of this month since I have been confined to my bed, 
and I may have as much longer to finish my work : but I am 
happy that all my changes and my appointed time, are with 
God, and not revealed to us. God is good — the Saviour is 
precious — the Holy Spirit is a comforter. I think I love the 
gospel, and if by remaining in the furnace, I can in any wajr 
promote the gospel, I am happy to do so. I have addressed 
about forty individuals by letter, to obtain their assistance in 
paying our bank loan, due the lfth instant, and have received 
one hundred and thirty-five dollars, with promises of some 
two hundred more, besides I am looking for more from those 
who have not yet responded to the call. I have also pre- 
pared an article for the New York Recorder, to call the atten- 
tion of the churches in that section of the state to the wants 
of the institution. I think I shall send a copy of it to the 
Register, although it is a feeble production. The institution 
has gone on remarkably pleasant this session. There is a 
healthy religious state of feeling, and quite a spirit of 
prayer among the students. I have one to watch with me 
every night, and when I cannot sleep, I have a season of 
prayer with him. The theological classes, and the senior 

22 



254 EEY. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

collegiate class, have each held a prayer meeting in my room, 
and the next class has a meeting appointed." 

To the same, he writes on December 15th : 

" I wrote you on the ninth, and gave you an account of my 
condition, which was a little more favorable than it had been. 
Since that I have experienced no material change, except an 
increase of pain in the back. It was so intense last night, 
that I got no sleep, and yet, having a watcher from the insti- 
tution, of much piety, I spent the night with him in conver- 
sation, prayer and reading Payson's memoir, very happily. 

" We conversed largely on the importance of moral cul- 
ture, as well as intellectual, for the ministry — the provision 
God made for the former, as well as the latter — that due 
attention to the scriptures, prayer, secret and social medita- 
tion and other religious duties, would do as much to develop 
and mature the gracious affections of the heart, as a proper 
attention to study, would cultivate the powers of the under- 
standing — that students on completing their course of educa- 
tion for the ministry, should be prepared to sustain as good 
an examination on their religious as literary improvements. 

" I had made a communication to the faculty on the 
subject of recommending to the students who hold a prayer 
meeting every Wednesday evening, by classes, that they 
appropriate one of these meetings every month, to pray for 
the Spirit to be poured out upon the churches and the impen- 
itent ; and once a quarter, let all the classes come together for 
such a meeting, when the faculty and the church connected 
with the institution should meet with them. This might 
have a good influence on the institution, and serve to com- 
mend it to the churches, that are contributing to its support. 
The faculty communicated the suggestion to the students, 
Sabbath evening, and it appeared to meet with a cordial 
reception. We conversed on the pleasant and prosperous 
state of the institution — the very interesting prayer meetings 
they have with the church, Sabbath evenings. 

" Arrangements are made to supply me with watchers, so 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 255 

that every student may in his turn have the privilege, for so 
they regard it. The two theological, and senior collegiate 
classes have had their turns, and the junior collegiate is now 
supplying me in alphabetical order, which course is to be 
carried out through the lower classes. I have the sympa- 
thies of all the friends of the Saviour around me. How mul- 
tiform are the mercies of God our Saviour ! who would 
wish to dictate to infinite wisdom and goodness ? but would 
rather say " Let him do what seemeth him good." 

The following also discloses the depth of love which, in 
the midst of failing strength, he cherished in the institution, 
and how much he labored to promote the spirituality of the 
students — 

"Hamilton, Dec. Uth, 1846. 
" Very Dear Sox, • 

" Yours of the 15th came to hand this morning. Your 
care and kindness and sympathies, and lovely letters, are 
entitled to a prompt and hearty response. I have you and 
your affectionate Fanny much in mind ; remembering you 
daily at the mercy seat, I cannot estimate the mercy God 
has conferred upon me in giving me two children so much 
to my liking, and who contribute so much consolation to me, 
in the days of my affliction. My condition, although not less 
helpless, is nevertheless not as painful, with the exception of 
now and then a day, as when you were here. I am writing 
a little more than I should have done. I obtained from indi- 
viduals, on direct application, towards paying our bank debt, 
a little over four hundred dollars. I expect to hear from 
some others, who did not respond in season. The sophomore 
class held an interesting prayer meeting with me last evening. 
The classes will hold a prayer meeting the first Wednesday 
evening in January, to pray for the outpouring of the Spirit 
of God upon the churches and the community at large, which 
they propose to do monthly. 

"I am looking upon my time as narrowing away to a 



256 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.I). 

hand's breadth, and yet I may have longer to stay than I 
supposed some months ago. The longer I live the more I 
am indebted to grace, and my returns to the Father of 
Mercies are quite unsatisfactory to myself, and must be highly 
so to him. I have but a faint idea of the " exceeding riches" 
of God's grace, which reaches the chief of sinners. I should 
greatly dishonor the Captain of our Salvation to doubt of its 
sufficiency, even in my case. I have had some seasons of 
consolation since you left. I have no righteousness ; no 
plans ; no hope out of Christ ; but in him I think there is 
fullness of joy." 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 257 



CHAPTER XXY. 

Illness — Continued — Letters — Letter to the Students — Letter from Dr 
Comstock — Reply— Other Letters— To Rev. A. Ten Brook — To his 
Children. 

A portion of a letter dated January 8th, 1847, indicates 
the progress of his disease, yet an entire submission to the 
divine will : 

" I have been more afflicted during the last week than I 
have been before since you left me. A deranged state of the 
bowels, which lasted about four clays, greatly increased my 
nervous sufferings, and deprived me of sleep for several 
nights. I am now much relieved, excepting the left side is 
failing. I have much pain in my hip, and the nerves in the 
left limb are becoming affected, but not as painful as they are 
in the right limb — the pain and lameness in the back have 
somewhat increased ; but these are capable of being modified 
and reduced by the same kind hand that deals out all our 
mercies. I have had some dark as well as painful hours, but 
as a whole I cannot say I think the mercies of God have been 
dealt out to me, the last week, with a more sparing hand. 
If God is not good I know not where to look for goodness — 
if the Saviour is not lovely and gracious, I know not where 
those traits of character can be found. I think tliat I have 
no chastening that I do not need. If I can have clearer views 
of the form of the fourth in the furnace I prefer enduring the 
heat. I find I have a great deal of dross yet to purge away. 
My prayer is that my heart may be under daily and efficient 
discipline, and that I may learn obedience by the things 
which I suffer. I think, at times, my hope gathers strength, 
and I look' to the holy city as my celestial home. I have no 
date by which I can number my days ; I know not when my 

22* 



258 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

change will come. You will not derange your business, nor 
make unreasonable sacrifices of health and means on my 
account. I am looked after with a great deal of care and 
kindness, and every thing done for my comfort that can be 
desired." 

We perceive from a few lines in the same letter that the 
measures recommended for prayer for the outpouring of the 
Holy Spirit were adopted, and the effect was happy and 
encouraging. 

" Things seem to be shaping around us favorable for 
inviting the King of Zion to make another visit in this part 
of his garden. Some fresh breezes of the spirit of prayer 
begin to be heard among the tops of the mulberry trees in 
Mount Libanus." 

The allusion here is to the adjoining town of Lebanon, 
where his son-in-law, the Rev. Linus M. Peck, was preaching. 

" There seems to be more of a spirit among the students, 
for looking to the cross, and rallying around it. They had an 
interesting concert of prayer yesterday, and they meet again 
to-morrow evening, to pray for the outpouring of the Spirit 
of God upon Zion, and upon the impenitent. May the Lord 
appear in his glory in the midst of his people." 

The manner in which Dr. Kendrick's sufferings were esti- 
mated by others, and the influence which was imparted by 
his patience under them, may be seen from a few lines which 
his daughter, Mrs. Peck, subjoined to the foregoing letter : 

" My Dear Brother, 

" It seems useless, and indeed presuming, for me to attempt 
to add anything to father's interesting communication ; as it 
is his request, however, it may be well for me to taper it off. 
Father has suffered intensely the last week, and you are 
well aware how painful it is to witness. The assurance that 
it is right, and that in faithfulness we are afflicted, has, I 
think, afforded me more consolation than ever before, and I 
have felt, I trust, thankful for the privilege of being with him. 



KEY. NATHANIEL E E N D K I C K ; P. D. 259 

to prepare for worship in the chapel, which will commence at 
I can never forget the teachings of this providence, and hope 
to be better for rny father's influence to the end of life." 

For a long time during Dr. Kendrick's illness, the faculty, 
and a few other friends, were in the habit of holding a prayer 
meeting in his room, on Lord's Day evening. These were to 
him seasons of heavenly enjoyment. He counted upon them 
as rich feasts of Christian communion. 

Mrs. Peck alludes to one of these seasons in a letter to her 
brother, dated January 15th, 1847 : 

" We had a very interesting prayer meeting last Sunday 
evening. Most of the professors were in. Father seemed 
to enjoy it exceedingly ; he said, in remarking upon the insti- 
tution, that his last breath should be spent in encouraging his 
brethren to go on." 

The following communication is entirely in harmony with 
the above expression, and exhibits to us the strength of his 
love for the institution, and for those who were candidates for 
the sacred office. While it evinces a measure of piety, to 
which comparatively few can lay claim. 

" To the students of the Madison University professing 
godliness, and preparing for the Christian ministry. 

"Dear Brethren, 

" You have been considering the preparations you need for 
your sacred calling, and the best means for obtaining it. Much 
labor has been bestowed on the arrangement for your intel- 
lectual course, and all the maturity has been given to it that 
time and circumstances would allow. 

" As the moral cultivation of the mind is not less im- 
portant than the intellectual, it has its appropriate claims, and 
the best provisions should be made to secure its accomplish- 
ment. There should be a scriptural recognition of its nature 
and importance, and of the means which God has provided 
to purify all the affections of our moral nature, and fit them 
for the service and enjoyment of G-od. The apostle Paul has 



260 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 

churches of Galatia, and has presented it in all the advantages 
of its antithetical form. 'Now, the works of the flesh are 
manifest, which are these : adultery, fornication, uncleanness, 
lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emula- 
tion, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, 
drunkenness, revellings, and such like, of the which I tell you 
before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which 
do such things, shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But 
the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gen- 
tleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance ; against such 
there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified 
the flesh, with the affections and lusts thereof. If we live in 
the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desi- 
rous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one ano- 
ther.' Gal. 5; 19-26. 

" To crucify the old man with his affections and lusts, and 
to give efficacy to the new man, which, after God is created 
in righteousness and in true holiness, is the great object of 
the Christian warfare, so abundantly taught in the scriptures, 
and so essential to a life of godliness, and a due preparation 
for the work of the ministry. You have proposed to appro- 
priate, in connection with your intellectual improvements, 
two hours in twenty-four, to be devoted entirely to this work. 
During this time the disciple is to be in intercommunication 
with his Master, on all the interests of his soul, the affairs of 
Christ's militant kingdom, the recovery of a lost world, and 
the daily services he is required to render to the Saviour's 
cause. 

" That no portion of those consecrated hours should be 
wasted, but employed in a manner becoming the nature and 
importance of the objects of their designation, they should be 
specified, and uninterrupted by any other employments. Let 
the morning hour for devotion precede any other business. 
Let the bell ring at five A. M. Let the hour for prayer com- 
mence twenty minutes after five, and continue twenty minutes 
after six o'clock. Let the bell then ring to notify the students 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 261 

given great prominence to this subject, in his letter to the 
half after six. Let the evening hour for prayer be from eight 
and a half to nine and a half o'clock, at which time students 
will do well to retire for sleep. 

" No student should be interrupted during the hours for 
prayer. These devotional duties of a private character should 
not be enforced by any enactments of the faculty, but per- 
formed under the conviction that they are required by the 
author of our holy religion, an dcannotbe neglected with im- 
punity. They should have a specified period of time given 
for their performance, to prevent their being hurried over in 
a manner which destroys the devotions of the heart. 

" This work of cultivating our moral nature should be 
regarded as identified with our religion, to be given up only 
as we give up our hope in God, and our allegiance to his 
government. The conscience of every student will keep his 
monitor's bill, to show with what punctuality, and with 
what spirit he has performed this duty, and the report is to 
be made at the judgment seat of Christ. The more you 
advance in the education of your moral powers, the greater 
will be your progress in your intellectual improvements. 
" The last labors of a worn-out and unprofitable servant, in 

token of the interest he cherishes in the preparation of the 

young men of this University for the Christian ministry. 

"NATHL. KENDRICK. 
" January l^/i, 1841." 

The following epistle is one of many received that gave 
Dr. Kendrick an assurance "that he was not forgotten, and 
the answer is characteristic of the man : 

" Cold water, January dth, 184T. 
" Rev and Dear Sir : 

"I have all along been advised of your extreme indispo- 
sition, and particularly so, by letters from your endeared 
children at Detroit. When I met them in Michigan I was 



262 KEY. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

reminded of what a Quaker said to a Jew, " I love thee for 
father Abraham's sake." I loved them for their own 
intrinsic merit, and for all the sentiments of respect and 
kindness which I have ever cherished for their beloved and 
revered father. Be assured, you have shared my tenderest 
sympathies — my most fervent prayers. Great, amiable and 
eminently useful qualities of character are accorded to you 
by universal suffrage. Yet in the righteous and inscrutable 
providence of God, you are called, in all the vigor of your 
mind, and in the full tide of usefulness, to inactivity and 
excruciating suffering. Well ! apostles, martyrs, and con- 
fessors have trod the rugged path before you. The inequality 
of things in this world infer a future state, and one too of 
holy retribution. O what a glorious contrast awaits the 
afflicted saint : one moment in the dungeon of the body, 
racked with rending pain, and the next with Christ, amid all 
the raptures of the New Jerusalem : What we do not know 
now we may know hereafter. It would seem that the laws 
of God are independent of each other. The same causes 
that impair the health, and destroy the life of a sinner, will, 
other things being equal, produce the same results with the 
most exalted Christian. 

" It affords me the highest gratification to know, what I 
might have anticipated, that you exercise, in your several 
trials, sweet submission to the will of God, and derive 
heavenly consolation from his grace. While these things 
furnish an additional test to you, of your high calling of God 
in Christ Jesus, they reflect fresh honor upon the divine 
efficacy of religion, and commend it to all who are conversant 
with your past and present history. The good man is 
enabled to look back from the verge of eternity on a well- 
spent life, with the approbation of his own conscience, and with 
some sustaining evidences, that, through mercy, he pleases 
God. The promises, mental constitution, the laws of thought 
and moral susceptibilities, are, under the combined influences 
of the truth and spirit, all concerned in this sacred delight. 



KEY. NATHANIEL KEN BRICK, D. D. 263 

But he knows that it is God who has made him to differ from 
the vilest of sinners, and hence, his boast and exultation are 
alone in the cross of Christ. The Lord, we trust, has inspired 
us with virtuous and pious sentiments, with a love for his 
truth and church. He has inspired our hearts with a holy 
concern for the salvation of lost men. He has given us 
delight in his work, and in the fellowship of all holy beings. 

Man is here, developing and forming his character : he is 
embracing principles, cherishing tempers, procuring food for 
thought, electing employments and company for everlasting 
ages. God influences the righteous man in his ultimate choice. 
God will not deny himself, nor war against his own works. 
He will never do violence to those moral feelings, which he 
himself has in various ways induced in the breast of a 
Christian. He will not doom a good and faithful servant 
at death to mingle with society and scenes similar to those 
which even in this life are abhorrent to every feeling of 
his heart. Blessed be God that we are enabled to look 
by faith into eternity, with lively interest and triumphant 
hope, as a world of progression in every thing that is 
desirable and glorious. * * * 

"With very high regard, I am Rev. Sir, 

" Your most affect ? ate brother in a precious Redeemer, 

"0. C. COMSTOCK." 

"Hamilton, Feb. 11th, 184T. 
" Yery dear Brother Comstock : 

" I have been waiting for days to get a little more strength, 
to acknowledge your very affectionate and sympathetic letter 
of January 9th, which was a cordial to my heart. I have 
mingled emotions under the receipt of many expressions of 
Christian favor from my old friends. While I have not lan- 
guage to express the gratitude I feel for the interest they 
manifest in my afflictions, I feel not a little embarrassed with 
the overestimates of any poor, frail, and sinful services which 
I have endeavored to render to the Saviour's cause. In view 



264 REV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D. D. 

of his glorious character, the stupendous work of redemp- 
tion, which he has wrought out in the gospel, and the incen- 
tives which he has furnished his disciples to a life of godli- 
ness, I am constrained to look back upon my unprofitable life 
in his service with pain and deep regret. The little I have 
done has been so polluted by sin, that it appears to me more 
in the light of a hindrance than a help to his glorious cause. 

" The grace of the gospel has never appeared more con- 
spicuous, nor more glorious to me, than it has while in 
this furnace of affliction ; mourning over my unmeasured 
depravity, and pleading for pardon and eternal life, in the 
name, and through the merits and mediation of the precious 
Redeemer. At times, my dear brother, it seems to me, I 
have a hope of heaven ; but sure I am, that nothing but grace 
can render this hope availing. It admits of no righteousness 
but what is found alone in Jesus Christ. The mercy and 
goodness and glory of God have sometimes appeared inex- 
pressible, and the present, notwithstanding my afflictions, has 
seemed to be the most desirable period of my life. I have 
great cause of thankfulness that I am allowed my reason, and 
notwithstanding I am confined to my bed, and obliged to lie 
the whole time on my left side, yet I can read some, and 
write a little, and am permitted to hear from many of my 
brethren in different parts of the militant kingdom. 

" Our theological institution is yet prosperous. We have 
about two hundred students, all but fifteen or twenty have 
the ministry in view. I am acting as corresponding secre- 
tary of our society, and although I can do but little, yet it 
affords me great pleasure to contribute my feeble services to 
this cause. I cherish the hope that the day will come when the 
church will afford us a more ample support. We have many 
needy students of much promise, but poorly provided with 
means of support, and some of them, I fear, will be obliged 
to leave without finishing their course. The session this 
winter is peculiarly pleasant. A good degree of the spirit of 
prayer, and Christian kindness, is apparent among the stu- 



KEY. NATHANIEL K E N D R I C K ; D. D. 265 

dents, and we have some of rare promise, for our own, and 
foreign lands. 

"We have but few revivals among the churches in this 
region ; it would give me great pleasure to see another day 
of the outpouring of the Spirit of God, such as we have seen 
in years past. I think more glorious times are in reserve for 
the people of God, and for the consummation of his king- 
dom, than have yet been witnessed in the history of the 
church. I regard the movements of the Jews in Germany 
and other parts — the commotions among the Catholics in 
Germany — the agitations in Switzerland, and all the revolu- 
tionary events occurring at this eventful period, as ominous 
of good, under the government of God our Saviour. 

" I can rejoice that your labors in Zion are continued. You 
have witnessed the joys of many who have listened to the 
message of mercy from your lips. May you see greater 
things than have yet been developed by your ministry. I 
hope, my dear brother, when the Saviour shall cease to make 
any farther use of us in this world, he may glorify the ex- 
ceeding riches of his grace, in presenting us pardoned and 
purified before the throne of his Father's glory. 

"I have no means by which I can make any calculation 
how long I may continue. I have expected a more rapid 
progress of my diseased state of body than I have had ; and 
during most of the last year I did not expect to take any 
part of the present year into the account of my connection 
with time. But having obtained help of God, I am sus- 
tained yet. If I should remain a few months, I shall be 
happy to receive another of your letters of love, and if able 
to answer it will do so. 

" I feel grateful that my children at Detroit have such a 
share in your Christian regards ; they have been much 
profited by it. They always give me the latest account of 
you, when they write, which I receive with joy. My chil- 
dren are desirous to remove me to Detroit if I should live 
through the spring, but I know not that the Master would 

23 



266 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

approve of it. He will not only determine the length of my 
stay on the earth, but the place and circumstances. I am 
trying daily to pray this prayer, ' Thy will be done.' Please 
to help me with your prayers. Your brother in Christ, 

"NATHANIEL KENDRICK." 

Mr. Peck writes, January 22, 1847, as follows : 
'' Since we last wrote there has been no very marked change 
in father's situation ; he has, as usual, suffered much, and slept 
but little, while disease has been steadily doing its work. He 
suffers much from an affection of the sciatic nerve in his right 
limb. It seems to be affected very much as the other, last 
winter, and lying on it so constantly, must, of course, much 
aggravate it. He is not able now to lie at all on his right 
side. It is no wonder, therefore, that his left hip and limb 
are becoming diseased. He is just now having no appetite, 
and his stomach loathes food. Last night he rested much 
more than usual. We hope, from indications, that he may 
to-night also have some quiet rest. In appearance, to one 
entering his room, he is about as when you were here." 
Mrs. Peck writes to her brother, February 1st, 184T : 
" The junior collegians have just sent in a request, that 
they might hold their weekly prayer meeting with father, on 
Wednesday evening. He has addressed two or three com- 
munications to the students this winter, which I doubt not 
have contributed to raise the standard of moral feeling in the 
institution ; indeed, it is said to be the case. He is as dili- 
gent as ever in the use of his pen. He wrote Dr. Babcock, 
of New Hartford, a few weeks since, in behalf of the Education 
Society, and soon after received from him fifty dollars ; this 
morning he received another letter from him, containing fifty 
dollars more, and saying that he did not know whether the 
amount should be credited to him or to John Harris, author 
of ' Mammon.' I have not seen father so delighted in a long 
time." 



EEV. NATHANIEL KEN D KICK, D. D. 2G7 

His own account of his condition, both in body and mind, 
is here given, in a letter to his son : 

" My pains are rendering me more helpless than they have 
done, and seem to be as sure an index to the terminating 
event as they have been at any time : and yet they do not 
measure the intervening period. This may be longer or 
shorter, according to the good pleasure of our Heavenly 
Father. 

" I feel the need of great grace, to be submissive to all 
that I am called to suffer, and my hope is sustained, thus far, 
that all needed grace will be granted. I have been looking 
over the life of Henry Martyn, an English missionary to 
India, during the last week, with much satisfaction, and 
found myself assisted by his remarkable spirit of prayer. 
But there is no example so full of teaching as that of Christ. 
Here is truth and grace, and in Him is all the aid we need. 
I love to commend myself, my family and friends, to his com- 
passion. May his word and Spirit, be your guide to man- 
sions which he has gone to prepare. 

" Your feeble, affectionate father, ST. K." 

The following, addressed to Rev. A. Ten Brook, and bear- 
ing date, Hamilton, February 8th, 1847, illustrates a remark- 
able Christian experience, and gives us some just idea of the 
nature and extent of his labors during his illness, and how 
eminently useful one may be, when laid aside from intercourse 
with the world at large. 

" The now diseased parts of my system are still giving 
way, and I am more helpless than I have been. I have not 
attempted to bear my weight for the last five weeks — my 
sufferings at times are not less than they were months ago. 
I am often having sleepless nights, and at no time can sleep 
but by the aid of the elixir of opium. My stomach and my 
bowels are greatly debilitated, and my appetite poor. I see 



268 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D. D. 

no symptoms of improvement in my ease, but a gradual wast- 
ing. I am looking for the summons to remove me from 
time, but have no means of knowing when it will come. I 
am greviously borne down with a body of death — a heart too 
hard for human power to penetrate, and distressed with pollu- 
tions, which only the blood of Christ can wash away. In 
this condition, I am looking to the Lamb in the midst of the 
throne, and cherishing a hope through the exceeding riches of 
His grace. I am sure my redemption must greatly magnify 
his mercies, and in view of the freeness and fullness of his 
love, I am taking courage to think I shall be permitted to 
praise him amidst the blood-washed throng that surround the 
throne of his glory. I think I love his services, his saints, 
his gospel, and his glory. I have such assurances of his wis- 
dom and goodness in all his dealings with me, that I feel no 
desire to make any choice for myself, but wish to resolve all 
my will and ways into his good pleasure. 

" I am favored with a social season of prayer every night, 
with one of the students from the institution, from which I 
have watchers, and every Sabbath evening, a number come 
in for a prayer meeting. Some of these meetings seem to 
me like heavenly places in Christ Jesus. I have never before 
been placed where I have had hours of devotion, and con- 
versation with every student in the institution, as I have had 
the last year. At the commencement of this session in 
October, the senior theological class, began to supply me with 
watchers, in alphabetical order, passing down from one class 
to another, after each individual in the same class had taken 
his turn. I am now having supplies from the higher acade- 
mic, I have had two from this class, without hope. The first 
had never been awakened on the subject of religion, yet, he 
conversed freely, and somewhat feelingly. When he left, he 
appeared grateful for the opportunity, and requested that I 
would remember him in prayer." The other student was one 
that at a former period, had been awakened, and had began 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 269 

to cherish a hope in Christ, but who through strong opposi- 
tion, and a concurrence of adverse influences, had been dis- 
suaded from further attention to the subject, save as it was 
unavoidably thrust upon him. In this interview the youth 
made a free disclosure of his mind, and offered prayer for 
himself, leaving the hopeful impression upon Dr. Kendrick's 
mind, that he was not "far from the kingdom of God." The 
letter thus proceeds : 

" My mind has been more impressed of late, with the 
importance of elevating the piety of the ministry. Truth 
coming ever so lucidly from cold hearts, will have but little 
effect, either to awaken sinners or edify saints. I have 
thought our theological institution to be very deficient in its 
provisions for cultivating the moral powers of the students. 
These, you know, are capable of as high cultivation as are the 
intellectual powers, and equally require the use of means. 
The gracious afflictions are improved, by bringing them in 
contact with their appropriate objects of delight. The whole 
range of religious duties is adapted to cultivate and sanctify 
the heart. The education we give our students is more intel- 
lectual than moral, little regard has been paid to those means 
requisite to bring the moral powers of the mind into daily 
and vigorous exercise. Devotional seasons are demanded to 
do this ; prayer, reading the scriptures devotionally, medita- 
tion, and self examination, require a systematical arrange- 
ment, to be performed daily by the student preparing for the 
ministry, as well as what is demanded for his classical 
improvement. The scriptures embody an amount of private 
duties in religion, which require time for their performance, 
and unless this is allowed in the arrangement for intellectual 
improvement, they will be greatly neglected, or performed in 
a way to afford but little profit. It would please me to see 
the first hour after rising in the morning, and a suitable hour 
in the evening, set apart in this institution, for private devo- 
tion, not to be interrupted by any other services." 

23* 



270 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

February 20th, lie writes, as follows : 

" My sufferings do not denote the length of time I have to 
remain in the body. This is a secret not revealed to us. I 
can hardly expect any better days, unless they are rendered 
so by greater measures of grace, which I greatly need, and 
for which I try to pray. I have hours of great pain on ac- 
count of sin ; my body of death was never more distressing 
to me. I sometimes take courage, and am ready to say, 'Why 
art thou cast down, O my soul, hope thou in God, for I shall 
yet praise him.' I think the opening of the spring will give 
us some more light on the crisis to which I am approaching. 
for grace to commit myself, my companion, and children, 
and the cause of God, and a perishing world, to the compas- 
sion of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I hope we may 
daily meet at the mercy-seat. Be faithful unto death, and 
the Lord will give a crown of life. 

" Your affectionate father, 

"NATHL. KENDRICK." 

March 4th, 184*7, indicates a gradual wasting of his strength. 

" I am wearing out my last days in pain and gradual decay, 
under the good hand of God, in whose mercy, through the 
sacrifice of his dear Son, I hope to be saved. Some days and 
nights I suffer more than I do others. As a whole, the varia- 
tions from one week to another are not very considerable. 
My left hip, on which I am obliged to lie the whole time, is 
wearing out and becoming sore, and is an additional source 
of pain. My appetite is poor, and my rest very much bro- 
ken. ' I know, Lord, thy judgments are right, and that in 
faithfulness thou hast afflicted me.' I desire to wait all the 
days of my appointed time till my change comes." 

On the 2?th of the same month, Mr. Peck writes as 
follows : — 

" Since we last wrote you, father has remained very much 
as usual. He has I think in the meantime had one poor turn, 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 271 

but on the whole has been as comfortable as during the same 
length of time for several weeks. To-day he is suffering 
considerably, and last night obtained no sleep ; indeed, it is 
unusual for him to get much quiet rest. The dealings of 
Providence with him seem very mysterious ; he has long 
been a great sufferer, and yet there is a great deal of vital 
energy remaining. Unless there is some new development 
in his disease, his sufferings must be very much protracted, 
and with little or no prospect of an abatement. He diverts 
himself by reading, visiting, and writing or dictating letters. 
His mind continues as vigorous and composed as ever." 



272 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

Prevailing state of Mind — Raptures — Correspondence — Testimony of 
an Eye-witness — Attack of Dysentery — Closing Scene — Funeral Ser- 
vices — Report entered upon the Minutes of the Madison Association 
— Notice in the Annual Report of the Education Society — Brief 
Survey. 

The state of mind which our departed father exhibited as 
his disease advanced, was for the most part a deep tranquility. 
In the earlier stages of his illness his enjoyment approached 
to raptures, insomuch that language was inadequate to de- 
scribe his emotions. These were to him sweet foretastes of 
the bliss of heaven. 

On one occasion he remarked to the student watching with 
him, " I have been thinking about the future inheritance of 
the saints, and such a world of resplendent glory has opened 
to my view, as almost to stagger my belief. I asked myself, 
— Is it possible that a poor sinner is to enjoy all this ? Yes," 
he replied, "it is all this, or nothing." 

Again, when suffering severely, he remarked, " I would not 
have a single pang removed. My heavenly Father knows 
best what I require, and I would not have his will in the least 
degree frustrated." 

No very perceptible difference appeared in his case for 
many months, save during the summer of 1847. In the 
month of June his brother, Adin Kendrick, of Vermont, spent 
several days with him, and discovered, as he thought, encour- 
aging symptoms in his case. The brother, Samuel Kendrick, 
Esq., of Troy, thus writes to the son in Detroit : — 

" I embrace this opportunity to apprise you of the latest 
information I have received of your father. Your uncle Adin 
has just returned from Hamilton. He stayed a week with 
your father, and he says he is much more comfortable, if not 



EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 273 

better. There is a new bone forming in his hip, though he 
has little use of his limb yet ; he has much less pain, and has 
a good appetite, and rests well at night, and says he cannot 
but hope he may yet recover. We hope it may be so, but it 
seems almost too much to ask for or think of." 

The correspondence between the father and the son was 
now, for several weeks, taken up with business matters, or 
relative to the settlement of a pastor, and we have only here 
and there a letter that reveals any new development in his 
disease, or state of mind. 

One addressed to Mrs. H. E. Thompson, of New London, 
Ct., a liberal patron of the institution, indicates a kind remem- 
brance of his friends, and his deep sympathy with them in 
their afflictions.' It also shows that his mind dwelt with 
intense earnestness upon the progress of the Redeemer's 
kingdom in the earth. We give an extract. The letter 
bears date August 23d, 1847 — 

" It gives me pleasure to hear that the doctor remains 
comfortable. I hope his last days may be rendered joyful, 
through the kind attentions of his companion, the affectionate 
regards of his friends, and the consolations of the Holy Spirit. 
I hope, through the unspeakable mercy of our God and 
Saviour, to meet him in a little time, in mansions of rest, 
where we may rejoice together with all the blood-washed 
throng, around the throne of the Lamb. 

" I think the fruits of your scholarship will be manifest in 
the cultivation of choice spirits for the sacred ministry. 

"lam yet lingering on the borders of the grave. How 
long I have to remain I know not. I think I prefer God's 
will to my own, and would wait all the days of my appointed 
time, until my change comes. We are hastening through the 
changes of life with great rapiduy. What astonishing pro- 
gress society is making in new inventions ! What speed is 
given to the traveler ! What aid to the mechanic ! What 
light is dawning on the sciences ! What an accumulation of 
means for propagating error ! And can the march of Zion 



274 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

be tardy in such an age as this ? ' Will not God cut short his 
work in righteousness V 'Will he not make a short work in 
the earth V How vast will be the winding up of all human 
affairs ? How overwhelming the thought that we are sub- 
jects of God's moral government, formed for an endless exist- 
ence in weal or woe ? How infinitely -important to our well 
being is the gospel of Christ ? How much we need the 
Spirit of God to prepare us for his coming and kingdom ! 
These are topics which occupy my thoughts more or less, 
and I hope through grace to understand the way of life, and 
be found in Christ at last." 

It may well excite our surprise that this great sufferer 
should have been able to direct and control his mind under 
such protracted pain to indulge in meditations like those just 
expressed. For, seemingly, his physical anguish was sufficent 
to absorb all his energies, both of body and mind. 

One who often entered that sick room speaks as an eye- 
witness : " For nearly two years he was unable either to sit in 
a chair or stand upon his feet, or even turn himself in bed 
without assistance. Yet, while his limbs became utterly 
helpless, and were gradually perishing, they were the most 
keenly sensitive to pain, and were often the seat of the most 
excruciating agony. Yet, throughout, he manifested a 
patience and fortitude the most exemplary. Although some- 
times while writhing under severe paroxysms of pain, his 
system paid its tribute to nature in involuntary groans, yet 
even these were generally suppressed, and never, we believe, 
in a single instance, did a murmuring word escape from his 
lips. Nay, what is still more remarkable, it would seem that 
a murmuring thought scarcely ever arose within his breast. 
So completely had that powerful spirit been subdued, so long 
and vigorously had it been disciplined in the school of grace, 
that it never evinced the first symptom of rebellion against 
the chastenings of God's mysterious hand. To the often 
expressed regret of sympathizing friends that they could not 
share with him in his sufferings, his reply was that he had 



REV. NATHANIEL KBNDRICK, D. D. 2,0 

not a pang to spare, and lie has repeatedly stated that he was 
not aware of having had., from the first of his illness, an 
impatient hour." 

The writer called upon the deceased in the month of May. 
1S4S, and during the interview he made the remark, "that 
the period of his sickness he regarded as the happiest of his 
life, and that he felt no anxiety as to the result, nor any 
desire to have his condition otherwise." Such a perfect 
resignation to the will of God. can be accounted for only on 
the principle that grace had triumphed in his souL 

To a mind thus freighted with divine blessings, death 
could be no surprise. He who had been borne in ecstacies 
of bliss almost to the pearly gates of the celestial city, could 
have no misgivings when actually summoned to enter the 
New Jerusalem. In the last letter that his feeble hand 
penned, he adverts to the prevailing sickness in the town, 
and moralizes thus : 

"It is quite sickly in our village. The dysentery pre- 
vails, and in many instances has proved mortal with children. 
and some grown persons. It is prevailing in Eaton and 
other places in this region. 

"We are. amidst the spoliations of this world, and the 
ruin of our race by sin. making our way to the grave. But 
the glorious gospel of the blessed God. which brings life and 
immortality to light, presents us a remedy for all the evils 
that have come upon us. How precious the hope that enters 
within the vail, where Christ, our forerunner, hath entered. 

''How consoling to contemplate this world in the light of 
God's government. His kingdom rules over all. and he will 
conduct all things to a glorious issue. Without a hope in 
his mercy I should be most miserable. I am striving to get 
the victory over my depraved heart, and to be more subdued 
in spirit to the Saviour. I must rely solely on the power of 
his grace, to do this." 

About a week after this communication left his study, the 
disease then raging in the village selected him for one of its 



276 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

victims. The final struggle of suffering, and the burial ser- 
vices, are thus described by Professor Kendrick : 

" It pleased God at length to dismiss him from this scene 
of suffering, and take him to his rest. A dysentery set in 
which baffled all attempts to check it, and after raging nearly 
two weeks, terminated fatally. He died on Monday, Sep- 
tember 11th, 1848, aged seventy-one years. The closing 
scene was peaceful. His mind, though feeble, was clear 
almost to the last. For a few hours before his dissolution, 
he was unable to articulate even in a whisper, yet so long as 
he could speak, his uniform expressions were those of an 
unshaken trust in his Saviour. He was too weak, he whis- 
pered at one time, to pursue a connected train of thought, 
but he felt the foundation firm beneath him, and death had 
no terrors. Among his last faintly whispered, yet distinct 
expressions, was the request that if any public notice was 
taken of his decease, all eulogizing language might be for- 
borne, and nothing said of him but what was befitting a 
pardoned sinner. He made the necessary arrangements for 
his funeral, selecting the preacher, the text, and one of the 
hymns to be sung on the occasion. The selections were 
characteristic of the peculiar type of his piety. The text 
was a part of the fifth verse of the forty-third Psalm : ' Hope 
in God ; for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my 
countenance, and my God.' The hymn chosen was that 
commencing, 

" 'I'll praise my Maker with my breath.' 

" The preacher (in the absence of several of the officers of 
the institution) was Rev. Alfred Bennet, a long-known and 
much-loved fellow-laborer in the gospel. His spirit passed 
away without a struggle, and on the face of the dead lay 
that placid smile which seemed to speak of joy that the long 
agonized body had at length sunk to repose, and the disen- 
thralled spirit winged its way to the bosom of its God. 
" On the Wednesday following, the funeral services were 



REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 277 

attended in the Baptist church in the village. The discourse 
was appropriate and eloquent, rich in the exhibition of those 
precious and glorious truths of the gospel, which, in connec- 
tion with the death of the believer, it is peculiarly fitting to 
contemplate. The remains of the deceased were deposited 
in the cemetery of the institution. " 

On the second day after his decease the Madison Associa- 
tion convened at Georgetown, and as he had been an active 
member of the body for upwards of thirty years, the dele- 
gates, with becoming fitness, placed upon their minutes the 
following tribute to his memory : 

"The death of Rev. Nathaniel Kendrick, D. D., being an- 
nounced to the association, the moderator, Rev. William 
Clarke, on motion, led in prayer, that the bereavement might 
be sactified to the good of mourning friends, and the members 
of this body. 

" It was further Resolved, That a committee be appoint- 
ed to prepare an expression of their feelings on this subject, 
with a notice of his decease, to be printed in the minutes, and 
Daniel Hascall, John Peck, and Isaac Bevan, were appointed 
as such committee. 

" Their report is as follows : 

" Your committee appointed to prepare a brief notice of 
the death of our venerable brother, Rev. Nathaniel Kendrick, 
D. D., suitable to be published in your minutes, report ' That 
in the very limited time for preparing, and space for publish- 
ing, allowed to us, it cannot be expected that we shall present 
such an extended notice of this beloved and extraordinary 
man, as will fully satisfy his friends, and as the cause of truth 
and righteousness requires ; but would express the hope that 
a fuller account of his life and death, from some source, will 
be given to the public. 

"He died in Hamilton, Monday, the 11th inst., aged sev- 
enty-one years. His last request to the First Baptist Church 
in Hamilton, was, ' I desire the prayers of my brethren of 
this church, that I may be submissive to the will of God, 

24 



278 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D. D. 

and wait his appointed time ; that I maybe supported in my 
severe distress, and not be left to murmur. I feel that my 
confidence and hope are in God. I have sweet peace and joy 
through our Lord Jesus Christ.' 

" Our brother has been known to some of us, as an able 
and faithful minister of Christ, for more than forty years. He 
came to this association on a visit, from Middlebury, Yt., in 
1816, and preached an instructive and impressive sermon, cal- 
culated to call forth the contributions and prayers of God's 
people in behalf of missions. Sometime the following year, 
he became pastor of the Second Baptist Church in Eaton. 
In that church, and the church in Sherburne, and the First 
Church in Eaton, now Morrisville, he continued to labor in 
the ministry, until in the judgment of his brethren, and his 
own, it became his duty to give up the pastoral charge that 
he might devote his time and talents more fully to the inte- 
rests of the literary and theological institution at Hamilton. 
But, although this became his principal field of labor, he had 
still in some measure the care of all the churches resting 
upon him. He was engaged in the cause of missions, domes- 
tic and foreign, in Bible and tract distribution, and in other 
benevolent enterprises for the promotion of morality, peace, 
and the prosperity of the human family. 

"His counsels were sought and freely given, in matters of 
difficulty affecting the welfare of the churches. 

" He was one of the most efficient founders and supporters 
of the institution in Hamilton. His instructions and advice 
imparted to the hundreds of students, are now influencing the 
ministry and the churches throughout these United States, the 
neighboring provinces, and in many portions of the heathen 
world. A large, if not the largest portion of our foreign 
missionaries, were influenced by his instructions, his example, 
and his prayers. Notwithstanding the remains of depravity 
over which he mourned through life, he left a character un- 
spotted by any foul stain, and as free from blemish as falls to 



d.d. 279 

the lot of the most eminent Christian minister in this age of 
the world. 

" For nearly three years he was confined to his bed, and 
needed watchers. Hundreds of the young brethren of the 
institution have been benefited by his prayers and discourse 
in the night watches. His bodily pains were for a long time 
exquisite, yet he was resigned. No one that we know of, 
heard a murmur from his lips. He said to one of us, ' I feel 
like a child in the arms of a kind parent.' Being asked 
1 Does death appear nearer than it has done V l Yes,' he re- 
plied, 'death is near, and I welcome its approach.' He se- 
lected a text, and a preacher for his funeral. The text was, 
Ps., 43d, last clause of the 5th verse, 'Hope in God, for 
I shall yet praise him who is the health of my countenance, 
and my God. ' On Monday, the 1 1th inst. , he sweetly breathed 
his life out without a struggle or a groan, at seven P. M. 
On Wednesday, at ten A. M., Bro. Alfred Bennett preached 
an impressive discourse in the Baptist house in the village, 
from the passage selected, and the body of our deceased bro- 
ther was carried to the burying ground on Seminary Hill, fol- 
lowed by the faculty, and such members of the boards, and 
students of the university, as were able to be present, and 
there interred. ' Being dead, he yet speaketh.'" 

"D. HASCALL, Chairman.' 1 

The New York Baptist Education Society also made an 
appropriate notice of his departure, in the Annual Report of 
1849, which is here subjoined. 

" It becomes our painful duty to record, on the opening 
page of our report, the decease of one, who, from the infancy 
of this society, has been looked to as one of its firmest 
friends, and most substantial, active and efficient supporters ; 
one, in short, who, so far as that term could be applied to any 
man, has been the life and soul of our educational enterprise, 
Rev. Nathaniel Kendrick, D. D., one of the very founders of 
the society and the institution ; holding in the institution, 



280 EEV. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 



through a long series of years, its highest chair, that of Sys- 
tematic Theology, and having served the society through the 
whole period as occasional agent, and for many years past 
having given, as Corresponding Secretary, his whole time and 
energies to the prosecution of its interests, until, in Septem- 
ber last, a few weeks after the annual meeting of the society, 
he was released by death from his earthly labors and suffer- 
ings. The trying, and most interesting circumstances 
attending his decease, are too well known to need here any 
particular enumeration. Suffice it to say, that, up to about 
the last hour of his agonized existence, while lingering on a 
bed of intense, and scarcely intermitted pain, his head, and 
heart, and mind, were all enlisted with unflagging energy in 
the great work of this society ; and, to the last, he labored 
with ever-deepening interest for its prosperity. 

" The appeals to the churches, which he sent forth from 
his death-bed, must still dwell in the remembrance of our 
brethren, and we cannot doubt that the seed which he then 
scattered with his pen and his prayers, will yield a rich har- 
vest while he is slumbering in the tomb. Although this is 
not the occasion for attempting to raise a fitting monument 
to his talent and virtues, yet his long and intimate connec- 
tion with the society, not only justifies, but requires at least 
a passing tribute to his many excellencies. The qualities of 
his mind and heart, rendered him eminently conspicuous 
among the greatest and the best of men in our state and de- 
nomination. 

" Never could we approach him but with reverence, nor 
associate with him without becoming most profoundly im- 
pressed with his great intellectual and moral worth. He was 
a profound theologian, and ardently attached to the great 
distinguishing features of evangelical truth. A devoted 
Christian, consecrating his life to the great work of building 
up the cause of Christ. He was a wise man ; an excellent 
judge of men and things ; studious of the things that make 
for peace, and fertile in resources tomeet any exigencies that 



BE V. NATHANIEL KENDEICK, D.D. 2S1 

might arise. He had devoted, as is well known, all his noble 
energies, in a special maimer, to the building up and foster- 
ing of our educational interests. In his decease, therefore, 
this society feels a special bereavement. 

" In his death, divine grace achieved a signal triumph. 
His sick room seemed as the gate of Heaven ; and his own 
soul was the seat of unfaltering faith in Christ, and of holy 
resignation to his Master's will. 

" The death of this distinguished man, naturally directs 
our eyes to the progress which he witnessed in our educa- 
tional operations, and to the great contrast between the feeble 
infancy of our society and its present matured and manly 
vigor. At the time when a single, untaught plough-boy 
sought the benefaction of the society, and its annual receipts 
and expenditures were, at most, but two or three hundred 
dollars, who could have anticipated that thirty years would 
witness so great an enlargement of its scale of operations ? 
Who could have dreamed, that the humble embryo of an in- 
stitution that was feebly struggling into being, would, within 
that time, be eminently contested, as a prize, an ornament, 
and a blessing, by different sections of the state ; and that 
the Baptist denomination, then looking with deep suspicion 
upon ministerial education, which, in a neighboring section 
of the country, they had seen made a substitute for a Divine 
call, and for spiritual qualifications, (and we would never 
wish them to be less suspicious of so fearful a perversion,) 
would then, almost in the entire body, become deeply im- 
pressed with the value of learning and discipline, as an aid 
to the ministerial work, and ready to pay their thousands, 
annually, to secure to themselves the benefit of a well trained 
ministry. Surely, we may exclaim, what hath God wrought ! 
And the lesson which we should learn, from this retrospect, 
is one of gratitude, encouragement, and zeal. Let us thank 
God and take courage. Let us rise above the difficulties that 
beset us, and remember that they are temporary, and will 
soon yield to zeal and united effort ; and let us press forward, 

24* 



282 REV. NATHANIEL KENDRICK, D.D. 

with united hearts, in the great work of giving an educated, 
as well as pious ministry, to our churches, and to the world. " 
To the sentiments just expressed, many will assent, as 
strikingly in harmony with their conceptions of the man. 

We now invite our readers to pass from the solemnities of 
the scenes which have just been portrayed, to survey him, 
whose memory we would perpetuate, from two or three 
stand-points, and see how his character impresses them as he 
is made to pass through the successive changes of his event- 
ful life. Born in the midst of the stirring scenes of the 
American revolution, he was cast upon the theatre of exist- 
ence at the most important epoch in our nation's history. 
"While he was rocked in the cradle of infancy, the clarion 
notes of war were pealing through the land. As he was 
passing through his childhood and youth, the now giant re- 
public was just casting off its swaddling bands. Warriors 
had contended for its existence, and not a few had sacrificed 
their lives in its defense ; but it needed, in the second stage 
of its development, not so much the warrior to fight its bat- 
tles, as statesmen to mould its government, and men of moral 
bravery to plant and nurture its religious as well as civil in- 
stitutions. It demands a generation of worthies, fresh from 
the baptism of a revived Christianity, to preserve our na- 
tional heritage free from danger. To commit it thus early to 
the guardianship of infidels, would jeopardize its welfare, 
and place at the mercy of another revolution the hard- 
earned laurels of a splendid victory. In the event of peace, 
there was a demand for men, who had the patience to work 
on in their quiet and virtuous employments, developing the 
integrity of their principles, and their inflexible love of free 
institutions, while no standards were floating over their 
heads, nor martial airs resounding in their ears. Imperative 
was the call for men, who should inaugurate a reign of intel- 
ligence, industry, and piety. That was no irresponsible life 
that must bloom under the newly risen sun of civil and re- 
ligious freedom. To live at that hour, was a privilege of no 



d.d. 283 

mean order, since it contained a patrimony that had the 
power of a blessing or a curse. Under auspices of such ex- 
traordinary character, the man whose history we have imper- 
fectly traced, had his birth and early days. How benign the 
influences of his home, and of his youthful culture, the fore- 
going chapters set forth. It was the glory of our land, and 
especially of New England, to be the birth place of not a 
few sons of this noble stamp. The impress of their charac- 
ter was given to our republic ; and to their honor be it said, 
they were among the best bulwarks of Christian patriotism. 
Whatever the subject of these chapters achieved in a quiet 
unostentatious way for the good of a Christian common- 
wealth, it was yet his more immediate province to serve in 
the ministry of reconciliation, and especially, to guide and aid 
candidates in preparation for this work. In a country that 
was yielding up its forests to the advancing march of civili- 
zation, and rapidly exchanging its far-stretching wilds for 
fields of golden grain, the spirit of progress could not be 
confined to material changes. It must impart its genius to 
every institution affecting the welfare of man. Its influence 
was communicated to every branch of business and to every 
profession ; and men in the ministry, including the sainted 
Kendrick in the list, who were endowed with great sagacity, 
as they took forecasting glances of the future, felt that it was 
devolved upon them to anticipate the wants of a growing 
population, which had already began in their day, to push its 
tide of emigration westward, and gave early signs that it 
could be stayed only by the Rocky Mountains, or the Pacific 
coast. They could not endure the thought that the teeming 
millions that were destined to people our soil, should be with- 
out a trained ministry. The schemes which these fathers pro- 
jected have not passed away like dreams. The foundations 
which they laid were permanent and the structures which 
have risen upon them, have grown into gigantic systems for 
good ; and they now stand forth as the proudest monuments 
of their originators. In them we are furnished with a com- 



281 KEV. NATHANIEL KENDBICK, D. D. 

mentary upon the wisdom of departed minds, and the schools 
which they established, and the benevolent organizations 
which they devised, are in their legitimate operations, now 
gathering garlands to their graves. 

A life extending over three score years and ten, nearly fifty 
of which fall within the nineteenth century, must have wit- 
nessed vast improvements in commerce, in governments, in 
the arts, and sciences, in benevolent charities, and in Chris- 
tian progress. The personage that has filled our minds so 
long, was not an idle spectator, but one in the front rank of 
progressive changes, leading on and challenging many to 
follow. He was both a pioneer and a wise master-builder. 

But while the active relations which Dr. Kendrick sus- 
tained for a long period, gave a fair opportunity to develop 
his character, and prove to the world the purity of his ruling 
motives, still upon his bed of illness we apprehend the excel- 
lence of his character was even more fully set forth. It is 
scarcely possible for any man whose name and services are 
identified with a seminary of learning for thirty years, to 
escape the breath of criticism and censure. The inauspici- 
ousness of some of its movements, must expose its guar- 
dians, and especially its senior officer, to the charge of blame, 
however innocent. Some would find fault that his theology 
was so thoroughly seasoned with high-toned Calvinism ; and 
that he was not warm enough in the advocacy of modern 
revivals ; that he was not sufficiently progressive in his uni- 
form policy. But the language of complaint was superseded 
by that of admiration, when it was manifest to all that during 
his years of confinement, God was with him in no ordinary 
measure. On his bed of languishing he gave a practical illus- 
tration of his long cherished doctrines. It was there that he 
delivered lectures upon Christian experience, and Christian 
culture, that were listened to with more interest and profit, than 
the ablest disquisitions from the chairs of theology, because 
they came from lips just touched with hallowed fire, and from a 
soul rapt in communion with God. Language was too feeble 



KEY. NATHANIEL KENDKICK, D.D. 285 

to express his desires for the holiness of the ministry, and the 
conversion of sinners. Seen through the medium of human 
speculation, it was a mystery beyond solution, that he should 
be held so long in the crucible of suffering ; but in the light 
of divine glory it was simply " to fill up that which was behind 
of the afflictions of Christ in his flesh for his body's sake, 
which is the church." His work was unfinished until his suf- 
ferings were ended. These were prolonged that many a ser- 
vant now installed in the ministry might know the benefit of 
heavenly communion, and from the stand-point of death in 
near prospect, obtain such views of his sacred vocation as 
would constrain him ever to magnify his office. 




EL s/m 'TAW .fly:l-"- 



§ C L&S Mu k E Ci E E 



LIFE OF SILAS U. KENMICK. 



CHAPTER I. 

THE FIRST AND THE SECOND BIRTHDAY. 

The interest with which a very wide circle of friends 
regarded the subject of the following sketch, as the last and 
worthy representative of a family that has filled an important 
place in the religious world, might call for some memorial of 
his life, but it is not to gratify such a desire that this sketch 
is undertaken. There are other and higher ends to be served 
by the recorded lives of the faithful, than the gratification of 
friendship, and there was much in the loving life of our 
friend, the memory of which we cannot willingly let die. It 
was not, indeed, filled up with deeds which may be gathered 
from the public annals of his time ; nor did he leave literary 
remains to be embodied in a biography ; nor is there any 
diary from which his spiritual history may be collected. There 
are but the impressions of a life of singular utility and beauty 
to be gathered from the hearts and memories in which they 
are embalmed, with what aid may be derived from hints 
scattered through a miscellaneous collection of letters written 
for the most part amid the pressure of business, and many of 
them written mainly on buisness occasions. Those who will 
consider what the task must be to gather up the materials of 
biography from such sources, will be prepared to make due 



288 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICI. 

allowances for the defects of this labor of love. Those who 
are predisposed to find fault may easily charge such sketches 
of life with partiality. It is unnecessary to say to the candid, 
that we would by no means represent the character of our 
friend as faultless ; but, then, ours is not the thankless office 
of searching out and recording his faults, but the more 
fruitful one of endeavoring to place the example of his piety 
and virtue before those who may be influenced to the imita- 
tion of them or encouraged in the conflict of life by the view 
of what he endured and obtained. Those who knew him 
best, will not by any means think that our sketch gives too 
exalted an impression of his excellencies. 

The memoir which precedes this, renders it unnecessary 
that any thing should be said here of his parentage or of the 
family history. Silas N., was the eldest son of Dr. Kendrick, 
and was born at Middlebury, Ct., January 19th, 1814. His 
mother died on October 11th, 1815, and the infant she left 
behind her found a home with his grandparents, until his 
father's second marriage, three years afterwards, when he 
joined the family in Eaton, N. Y. His boyhood we may 
suppose was in no way remarkable, as few reminiscences of 
it survive. He is spoken of by those who then knew the 
family as an affectionate boy, guileless and sincere ; and a 
certain simple courage, which showed that the thought of 
fear had never occurred to him, is spoken of as being 
remarkably united with unusual gentleness and modesty. 
The connection of his father with the Theological Institution 
at Hamilton, and the efforts that were made to establish 
schools of a high order in that village, afforded him the best 
advantages of education. He displayed, however, no literary 
tastes, and was disinclined to pursue any studies beyond 
what might fit him for a respectable position as a business 
man. His inclination towards active industry, and the settled 
wish to earn his own living, were early developed. The 
earliest notice we have found of him is contained in the 
Annual Report of the Seminary for the year 1828, which con- 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICE. 289 

tains the treasurer's entries of payments made to Silas N". 
Kendrick for labor performed, and we trace him thus alter- 
nating periods of labor and study, until he left his father's 
house to prepare for the more serious business of life. 

The first event that claims a more deliberate notice, is that 
upon which the interests, not of temporal but of eternal well- 
being turns — his second birthday. Neither the recollections 
of friends, nor the remains of his own correspondence, furnish 
us with accurate details of the circumstances of this great 
change. We may perhaps on this account be the more 
readily permitted to indulge in some general remarks on the 
subject of conversion, though they detain the reader from 
what they more particularly seek in a biographical notice. 

The purpose of redemption is the key to the riddle of mor- 
tal existence. It explains the mystery of God's forbearance 
with a guilty world. Nay, since creation itself had redemp- 
tion in view, it explains the reason of the world's existence. 
In case of an individual of the human race, it may therefore 
most emphatically be said that conversion is the grand crisis 
of his existence up to this point, all has been merely pre- 
liminary. To relate his previous history is but to trace the 
path by which this point was reached, a path frequently 
indeed concealed from the closest scrutiny of man. Fre- 
quently all influence, so far as we can judge, seem unfavorable 
to such a result. The heart may appear to be receding from 
it ; those who looked for it may have begun to despond ; those 
who sought it maybe dead or distant ; and ungodly associates 
may have taken the place of those who warned and entreated ; 
and just then, when it was least expected, the poor prodigal 
may have come to himself, and returning to his father, found 
pardon, peace and immortal security. The pardoned sinner 
is constrained to acknowledge that God's promise is fulfilled. 
" I will bring the blind in a way that they know not. I will 
lead them in paths that they have not known. I will make 
darkness light before them, and crooked things straight." 

25 



290 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

In one way or another God vindicates his sovereignty, and 
secures his glory in the salvation of his children. 

The conversion of a sinner is as joyful as it is momentous. 
To himself, it is a change from death to life, from the gloom 
of prospective wrath to the glory of a heavenly hope. To 
the loving hearts who labored and prayed for him, it is a 
change from agonizing solicitude to the untold satisfaction 
of receiving the object of such solicitude into hallowed rela- 
tions, and an eternal union of love and destiny. The joy of 
the event is shared by all who are in sympathy with Him 
who sees in it of the travail of his soul and is satisfied. 
" There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one 
sinner that repenteth," and beside this announcement, how 
insipid is the most rapturous enthusiasm with which earthly 
history records its most brilliant events ! 

The conversion of a sinner does not derive all its conse- 
quence from the individual transformation of character and 
destiny therein effected. The divine life imparted to the soul 
is not only in itself a blessing, it is a source of blessings 
which in their interminable diffusion, bring an unreckoned 
revenue of glory to God. We are therefore disposed to 
linger around the day of a beloved brother's espousals with 
the thought in our hearts of his after-life of sanctified 
beneficence — the consolation and godly edifying which he 
ministered to many of the children of God — the children of 
wrath who were won to Christ by his instrumentality, and 
who shall be to him a crown of joy and rejoicing in the day 
of the Lord Jesus. 

If ever a capacious heart overflowed with gratitude on 
the conversion of a child, it was the heart of the father 
whose ardent and exalted affection, gaining ardor and exalta- 
tion through advancing years, lends a principal charm to the 
life-records from which we transcribe these pages. The 
preceding memoir of Dr. Kendrick renders it unnecessary to 
say that the gratitude awakened by the conversion of Silas 
was not a shallow emotion, satisfied with superficial evidence 



LIFE OF SILAS 1ST. KENDKICK. 291 

and exhausted in a flippant utterance. The salvation of his 
child had been the burden of his parental solicitude, from 
the hour that the first fervent prayer was poured out for 
the infant which was placed in the arms of a manly but 
tender affection. The development of his child's disposition 
and character had been sedulously watched with this end in 
view, and all influences and associations which could affect 
the formation of character, had been judged by their bearing 
upon this object. The accomplishment of such an object 
was of too great importance to be readily taken for granted, 
and accordingly a progress from prudent and delicate en- 
couragement to a full and unhesitating confidence, may be 
traced in the father's letters, extending through years of 
patient watching for the fruits by which, says the Lord, "ye 
shall know them." 

This is a matter of great delicacy with Christian parents, 
and all who have the care of souls. On the one hand, they 
are not to add to the trials of the young convert by distrust, 
and by withholding the cordial sympathy for which the 
renewed heart yearns. On the other hand, they must not 
encourage the tendency of susceptible minds to rest in the 
endorsement of their profession by experienced Christians, 
instead of the testimony of the Spirit. Many true converts 
have their peace and progress hindered by the former mis- 
take, which not only deprives them of the aids of fraternal 
communion, but fosters the too common vacillation between 
hope and fear — a vacillation so common, that doubt of per- 
sonal acceptance seems to be considered a mark of grace, and 
the full assurance of faith, but another name for presump- 
tion. Under the influence of the latter mistake, daily dis- 
honor is done to the name of Christ. Many have been sent 
down to the grave with a lie in their right hand, by the 
hearty endorsement, by ministers and churches, of the emo- 
tions of an awakened sinner, as the experience of a child of 
God. 

On many accounts, we regret that we have failed to pro- 



292 LIFE OF SILAS N. EENDRICL 

cure detailed accounts of Silas's conversion, but there are 
some considerations which reconcile us to the failure. There 
is a disposition to demand that the mental exercises of all 
who pass from death to life should be conformed to some 
recognized model, and to look upon a conversion with suspi- 
cion, if it does not correspond with this standard. And such 
is the tendency to imitation, that, in different regions and at 
different times, we do find a singular uniformity in such exer- 
cises. The very peculiar exercises of Bunyan are tran- 
scribed and stereotyped in the escape of Christian from the 
City of Destruction ; and such is the influence of the 
transcript, that the Slough of Despond has come to be re- 
garded, if not as a gospel institution, at least as lying so 
unavoidably in the way to the cross, that a conversion would 
scarcely be regarded as genuine, unless it included an experi- 
ence of the horrors of that miry pit. Such an experience 
remains, indeed, among the most painful recollections of 
many ; but it should be referred to as a warning, not as an 
example to the awakened sinner. We gratefully recall the 
reply of an eminent saint, when recounting the Lord's deal- 
ings with her soul, to one who asked, " And were you long 
in the Slough of Despond?" "I was never there at all, sir; 
I went straight to the cross of Christ." The reply suggests 
the occasion of our sufferings, and points the inquirer to the 
evangelical path of escape from guilt and wrath. 

More disastrous than the disposition of Christians to set 
up a model of conversion, is the disposition of the awakened 
themselves to fix upon some accounts of conversion which 
they have read or heard, and to labor or wait for a conformity 
of their own exercises to these. Unbelief and self-righteous- 
ness, with all their fruits of woe, thus become objects of 
their imitation. They are persuaded that they may not lay 
hold of Christ until they have passed through the same con- 
flict. This error holds multitudes long in terrible bondage, 
and even continues to cast its shadow over their whole 
Christian course ; and it leads multitudes into the fatal 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 293 

delusion of saying peace to themselves, because they can 
trace a correspondence between their tumultuous emotions 
and those out of which peace was first won for some eminent 
saint. These victims of delusion are greatly multiplied at 
times of religious awakening, under the influence of men 
who devote themselves to the promotion of excitement. 
The faithful minister of Christ will be humbled when he 
remembers the numerous instances in which applicants for 
admission into the church, instead of professing faith in the 
Lord Jesus, relate their own feelings and resolutions as the 
ground of their hope. Frequently it is impossible to detect 
the slightest reference to the only name given under heaven 
or among men whereby they can be saved. It need there- 
fore occasion no surprise, though it must awaken the deepest 
sorrow, that the whole field of professing Christianity should 
be strewed with the ruin of promising hopes which were built 
upon the sand. 

Such considerations reconcile us to the failure of all at- 
tempts to collect the particulars of our brother's conversion, 
since the scanty accounts we have to give cannot minister to 
the prevailing delusions. It occurred when he was about 
sixteen or seventeen years old, in the course of a revival in 
the village of Hamilton, which is noticed in the preceding 
memoirs. We quote a brief statement of the manner in 
which Silas first declared himself on the Lord's side, from the 
pen of one who listened to the declaration : — 

" He was under conviction, according to my recollection, 
three or four weeks. I had interviews and seasons of prayer 
with him during that perio'd. A large number of young 
men about his own age were in a similar state of mind. At 
a prayer meeting on the evening of the day he obtained a 
hope in Christ, he rose to speak, with a heart overflowing 
with joy, and told us he had discovered why he had so long 
been kept from the embraces of his Saviour. He said he 
found he was making conditions in his applications for mercy ; 
he wanted to make a kind of bargain with God. When he 

25* 



294: LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDKICK. 

prayed lie promised to surrender himself to Christ, and serve 
him if he would save him. 'But,' said he, ' this morning I 
saw so clearly the wickedness of my heart and life, that I 
resolved to turn to God, and serve him the remnant of my 
days, whether he saved me or not. The moment I came to 
this decision, my burden was all gone. I felt as if I could 
fly, I was so happy, and all the world would be no induce- 
ment to me to live in sin as I have done.' Then turning to 
seventeen or eighteen of his companions by his side, all in 
tears, — the room was full of weeping, — he said, ' My young 
friends, when you pray for pardon, do not say you will give 

up all if . Do not try to make a bargain with the Lord, 

as I did, but surrender yourselves to him without an if It 
is wrong to continue in sin ; it is right to obey and serve 
God, whether you are saved or lost, whether he sends you to 
heaven or hell ; and the moment you make an unconditional 
surrender, you will find peace to your soul.' 

" All felt then that Silas had made an unconditional surren- 
der to Christ, and that he was accepted of him. The correct- 
ness of that judgment has been evinced by his subsequent 
life." 

This account, it must be remembered, is written from 
recollection, after the lapse of nearly thirty years, and may 
be very incomplete. We may suppose also that a young 
convert, speaking under the agitation of such an occasion, 
made a very imperfect expression of his own experience. 
How otherwise can we account for the absence of even a 
remote reference to the only grounds of a sinner's acceptance, 
and for the apparent contradiction of the great truth of an 
evangelical faith. " Knowing that a man is not justified by 
the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, we 
have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by 
the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law." The 
gospel indeed summons the sinner to repentance ; it finds 
him estranged from God, and beseeches him to be reconciled 
to God ; but it does not call him to surrender himself to God 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDKICK. 295 

in ignorance or indifference as to whether he shall be saved 
or lost. On the contrary, the very burden of the gospel mes- 
sage, and the grand argument by which its call is enforced, 
is, that God "hath made him to be sin for us who knew no 
sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in 
him." The gospel assuredly does not call us to serve God 
as the condition or purchase of salvation, but neither does it 
call upon us to serve God without regard to our salvation ; 
for we cannot serve him under this bondage of fear. It, first 
of all, brings us the assurance of salvation in the name of 
Christ — " Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt 
be saved." Then, in the enjoyment of a free salvation, the 
love of Christ constrains us to live, not unto ourselves, "but 
unto him who died for us, and rose again." There can be no 
true peace to the soul, no true surrender of the heart to God, 
no true service, except in the knowledge and belief of the 
love God hath to us. " We love him because he first loved 
us," is the brief history of every holy affection, and every 
God-ward desire in the heart of the believer. The office 
of the Christian minister is to set before the awakened sinner 
the testimony of God's love in the propitiation for our sins ; 
and the language of faith, beholding that propitiation, is, 
"He loved me, and gave himself for me." When this 
blessed security is attained, and we perceive Christ as made 
of God to us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, 
and redemption, we will surrender ourselves to God without 
an if — that is, without a doubt or fear regarding our safety ; 
inasmuch as our salvation depends not on what we are to do, 
but on what Christ has done for us. Our hope rests, not on 
our surrender or service, but on the righteousness of Christ 
as its ground, and the word of God as its warrant. For the 
rest "we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto 
good works, which God hath before ordained that we should 
walk in them." The law, as it has been expressed, says, 
"Do these things, and thou shalt live." But the gospel 



296 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDKICK. 

comes to men dead in trespasses and sins, and says, " Live, 
and do these things." 

Defective as the statement quoted may be, either in its 
original utterance or in the report of it, we may well believe 
that one who had received his religious instruction from 
Nathaniel Kendrick was not left to say peace to himself, on 
the grounds there expressed, nor to build his house on such 
loose and shifting sands. We have no means of determining 
whether he was made savingly acquainted with the founda- 
tion which God hath laid in Zion at the time referred to in 
the quotation, but we have abundant evidence in his later 
life, and the most emphatic testimony of his dying hour, that 
his only desire, at last, was to be found in Christ ; not having 
his own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is 
of the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by 
faith. 

We meet with the following allusion to this period of his 
life in a letter to his father, dated Poultney, Vt., March 21st, 
1836, " I look back to the time when I first felt my sins for- 
given. I was happy, and thought I could never sin again, 
but how little I knew my own weakness ! I rather felt my 
profession of religion, and my connection with the church, 
were sufficient to keep me from the sins of which I had for- 
merly been guilty. I neglected to keep the heart in commu- 
nion with prayer and sacred things. I forgot my obligations 
to God and the church, and I have received the chastisement 
of a disobedient child." 

Without an explicit avowal of any remarkable change in 
his spiritual condition, about the period at which this letter 
was written, it is very noticeable in such letters as have been 
preserved that subsequent to this time divine things occupied 
a much more prominent place in his regard ; the tone of his 
correspondence was greatly elevated, and his views of the 
ample provision of divine grace for all the exigencies of 
the Christian life were wonderfully advanced in clearness and 
scriptural correctness. 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 297 

Looking back from the attractiveness and spiritual power 
of Silas Kendrick's maturity, to these beginnings of divine 
life in his soul, we may well learn to be tender and cautious 
in our treatment of young converts, and to remember Him, of 
whom it is said, " The bruised reed he will not break and the 
smoking flax he will not quench." At the same time we 
plead for a more simple exhibition of the true object of faith 
in all religious instruction, and for an unsparing correction of 
that false teaching which encourages the natural disposition 
to rest in duties and feelings — in outward acts and relations 
— in a public profession and church connection. A style of 
preaching has become unhappily prevalent among the most 
earnest and popular ministers of this country, which appears 
to have this tendency ; and as its results most of us are only 
too familiar with the relation of doubts and fears, good reso- 
lutions and fair promises, self-complacent reports of activity, 
mingled with confessions of derelictions of duty as making up 
what is called a Christian experience. The fruits most 
lamentably attest that modern progress has not improved 
upon the practice of the first preachers, who, in the language 
of a friend, " Wherever they went and in whatever assembly 
they stood, unhesitatingly and fearlessly proclaimed salva- 
tion, through Christ, freely and indiscriminately to all. Their 
uniform practice was to state the great facts relating to Him 
as the substance of their message — that Jesus is the Christ 
— that he had died according to the scriptures, and was risen 
again. This was the burden of their message — the good 
news which they every where announced on the authority of 
God. And then, on the ground of this, lifting their voice 
like a trumpet, they proclaimed the full remission of sin, and 
the gift of eternal life to all, without distinction, who would 
receive these blessings as they were offered, even freely, 
without money and without price. ' Be it known unto you, 
therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is 
preached? — proclaimed as by the voice of a public crier — 
1 preached unto you the forgiveness of sins, and by him all 



293 



LIFE OF SILAS N". KENDEICK. 



that believe are justified from all things from which they 
could not be justified by the law of Moses.' This was the 
uniform practice of the first apostles. Would that it were 
more and more the practice of those who now occupy their 
place as preachers ! Surely there should be no fear to do 
what they did. The gospel is unchanged. It is the same 
message now as then. It should be the ambition of all who 
are entrusted with it to preach it as fearlessly, as freely, and 
as fully as it was proclaimed in primitive times. Were this 
done a measure of the same success would assuredly follow. 
Many would believe and be saved, and those who believe 
would, as in former times, ' be filled with joy and with the 
Holy Ghost.'" 



LIFE OF SILAS X. KENDRICK. 299 



CHAPTER II. 

THE PREPARATION FOR THE BUSINESS OF LIFE. 

We are now to trace our friend through that stage of life 
when a being, hitherto dependent, though cared for by the 
most powerful affection which God enkindles in the heart, 
aside from that which binds us to himself, is launched upon 
the troubled and treacherous sea of mortal interests as in 
some sense independent and distinct. With what ardor has 
the inexperienced heart of youth anticipated that hour of 
individualization ? With what shrinking solicitude has the 
experienced heart of a parent anticipated it ? A parent may 
send forth a son warned and guarded by counsels which have 
been reaped in bitterness from experience ; but, happily, the 
ardor and buoyancy of youth render it impossible to convey 
to it the experience itself, and a full impression of the reali- 
ties which are to be encountered in the world which shines 
so attractively in the light of hope. Could all the losses and 
crosses, pains and perils, hollowness and mockery which that 
rosy light conceals, be distinctly unveiled beforehand, des- 
pondency would paralyze the energies of youth, and it would 
sit down in darkness to pine away in the paternal home, 
which itself would be robbed of all its charms. The mercy 
and wisdom of G-od conceal the future by a curtain which we 
cannot lift up, if we would ; and, if wise, we would not if we 
could. But happy is that father who has reason to trust 
that his boy does not go forth to the battle in mere creature 
strength. 

Silas Kendrick was singularly free from the vices of youth, 
and from the follies which ripen into the vices of manhood. 
A natural delicacy and refinement, which are usually regarded 
as the most attractive traces of the gentler sex, were seen in 



300 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

his character to be perfectly compatible with an almost pre- 
mature manliness. Those who had loved his mother saw 
all that won their admiration yet living in her son ; while 
the friends of his father would often exclaim, when they saw 
the stronger points of Silas's character brought out — " That 
is the doctor over again " — and the union of the two was not 
unharmonious nor incongruous. It is not necessary to be 
weak in order to be refined, nor to be effeminate in order to 
be gentle. The noblest oak is not that which is snarled and 
leafless, thrusting its distorted nakedness against the sky. 
Perhaps it surprised those who looked upon his slight figure, 
and heard his musical voice, and observed his gentleness, and 
knew his opportunities, to learn that the settled purpose of 
his mind led him away from the college and the counting- 
room ; from learned professions and the pursuit of commerce 
to the workshop. 

In the spring of 1833, he left his father's house, followed 
by many prayers, to carry his purpose into execution; and 
made his first effort to obtain employment at Troy, N. Y., in 
a machine shop and foundry. He had one offer, regarding 
the terms of which he writes to his father, " I did not quite 
conclude to sell myself at that price." He first found employ- 
ment in a foundry at Poultney, Vt., and again writes to his 

father : " Mr. L , for whom I am at work, is a very pious 

man, and very pleasant in his manner. As for the business, 
it never presented the least novelty to me. I knew some- 
thing of it before ; I am not at all sick of it or disappointed. 
I have begun with the resolution to be steady and prudent. 
I am to have the privilege of attending the meetings of the 
church, and should like to have my letter from the church in 
Hamilton if they can give me one. " 

Two months after the date of the letter from which this 
extract is made, we find his father writing to him : " The 
facility with which you are becoming master of your busi- 
ness, the satisfaction the business affords you, as well as the 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KEXDEICK. 301 

approbation and good will of your employer, were considera- 
tions of no small importance to me. 

" I was also gratified with your resolution to allow your 
name to appear on no day-book, and that you have managed 
so long with your limited means, without calling for your 
wages. A little endurance of this sort will enable you to 
judge between the necessaries of life and its superfluities, and 
to understand how little the latter compensate for the embar- 
rassment and even poverty which they often bring upon 
those who indulge in them. There is not only a manliness 
and dignity of feeling occasioned by having funds at control 
which have been acquired by industry and prudence, but 
there is an accumulation of power to fill a larger sphere of 
usefulness. 

" If you are becoming more useful to your employer than 
he anticipated, let that occasion you no discontent. If he 
will fix upon the amount of labor for a day's work, and pay 
you for all you do beyond that, it will be honorable on his 
part, and profitable to you, provided it should not prove a 
temptation to go beyond your strength and injure your health, 
nor induce you to place a less value on this part of your gains 
than on the rest, so as to detract from your economy. In 
either case you would be a loser." 

The common sense of Dr. Kendrick's counsels may prove 
of use to some readers of these extracts, which are made 
chiefly to give a distinct impression of the manner in which 
Silas entered upon the business of life, and of the influences 
that directed him in a course of prudence, which early won 
for him universal confidence and respect. A voluminous 
family correspondence lies before us, commencing from this 
period and extending to the close of the father's life, in its 
general character and subjects commonplace perhaps, but yet 
in itself remarkable and instructive. To none of his family 
or friends does Silas write so cordially and confidentially, as 
to his father. All his plans and aspirations, even what might 
be regarded as his day dreams, are written with the freedom 

26 



302 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

of an intimate associate, and yet with the most marked re- 
spect, which never loses sight of the father's dignity and 
claims. Through all his plans of life, from first to last, runs 
the hope, which was not abandoned till death blotted it out, 
that the revered head of his father should find a last shelter 
in his home. In his first letter from Poultney, in 1833, he 
says, " I shall not attempt to accumulate a large fortune, but 
I hope to accomplish enough to settle myself on a good farm, 
and to do something for my parents in their old age." In 
184T, he writes to his sister, when their venerable parent was 
approaching the close of life, " That father should come to 
live with us, has been my favorite plan, my great desire, and 
it is not easy for me to give it up." 

The cordiality, frankness, and affection of the son's letters, 
are encouraged by the overflowing kindness of the father's. 
Occupied with the cares of his responsible position, amid the 
labors of his class, on his frequent journeys to promote the 
interests of the theological institution, and pressed by the 
claims of a very extensive correspondence, Dr. Kendrick 
found time to answer every letter of his son, and to return 
him measure for measure. His letters are dated sometimes 
from his study, or on board a steamboat, or at a hotel where 
the stage had stopped to change horses, or at the house of a 
friend. Wherever his son's letter reached him, he finds an 
opportunity to reply. The answers abound not only with 
judicious counsels and admonitions, but with such expressions 
of opinion, and relations of experience, as one would write 
to a Christian brother. Domestic and local news, especially 
intelligence concerning the seminary and the churches, are 
minutely rehearsed — probably to none of his most intimate 
friends and brethren, did he write so fully as to his son, re- 
garding all that interested, perplexed, or pleased him. They 
had no concealments from one another ; and, probably, the son 
never took an important step even in his business, without 
laying it particularly before the father. 

Silas gave early promise of success in the business he had 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 303 

chosen. About two years after, he went to Poultney he wrote 
to one of his younger brothers — " I have taken a job from 
my employer, which yields me a little more than two dol- 
lars a day. I hope to be able to buy a farm in a year 
or two. I shall send father fifty dollars this week." At 
this early age he begins to manifest a disposition which led 
to much of the usefulness of his later years — a disposition to 
surround the young who came within his reach with an affec- 
tionate sympathy, and to aim at their elevation. His younger 
brothers were his first care ; and in his letters to them, he 
endeavors with no little tact to draw out their thoughts on 
important subjects, and to urge divine truth on their atten- 
tion. The judicious counsel which he scatters throughout 
them, strikingly reminds us of the sound judgment of his 
father. In the letter just quoted from, he says : "you must 
not yet feel home sick, my dear brother, make yourself at 
home where you are. If you do well, and are kind and affec- 
tionate to those around you, you will always find good friends. 
Be true to the best interest of your employer, and you will 
best promote your own interest. I know by experience, my 
dear Covell, that an honest, steady, straightforward course is 
the very best for a young man. A good reputation is worth 
every thing, and it may be lost much easier than acquired." 
The father of a youth who died in Poultney, about the time 
when this letter was written, thus expressed himself in a let- 
ter to Dr. Kendrick : " I shall always feel under great obli- 
gation to your son for his kindness in taking care of my 
lamented Carlos, during his last days. Silas and I took care 
of him night and day. He was unwilling that we should 
both leave him at the same time." 

Ere long, he entertained the desire to aid his family 
more efficiently, and to lighten the cares and the expenditure 
of his father, which were both overtaxed by the claims of 
the institution to which Dr. Kendrick gave himself with such 
devotedness, and which remains a monument of his zeal and 
wisdom. Silas proposed that his young brother should come 



304: LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

to Poultney, to attend the academy there, and offered to 
defray all expenses, and exercise a watchful care over the 
boy ; and, when this proposal was declined, we find him writ- 
ing concerning an older brother, who like himself, preferred a 
trade to a profession : "I have a better contract with my 
employer than I had last year ; I employ three hands. I 
should like to have brother Covell, come and work with me — 
I will give him as much as he can earn anywhere, and pay 
his travelling expenses. I should be glad to have him with 
me ; and it would be no disadvantage to his habits of indus- 
try to be here. If he does not wish to learn the art of mould- 
ing, I will teach him some other branch of the business. I 
will have him room with me, and will do all I can for his 
good. Should father be willing to have him come, I will 
send the money as soon as I hear from you." 

As the result of this proposal, he writes at an early subse- 
quent date : " Brother is well, and likes his business. He 
is not so quick to learn as some boys, but he is steady, obe- 
dient, and kind-hearted. I spend my evenings in my room 
with him, and a young friend. We study, for two or three 
hours, arithmetic, book-keeping, and Euclid. Covell does not 
seem inclined to idle away his leisure hours. I am confi- 
dent I can have an influence over him, and earnestly desire 
it may be for good." 

These extracts render it unnecessary to say any thing 
regarding the character of the associates Silas chose, or the 
manner in which he spent his own leisure hours. From the 
time that he left his father's house, we find constant evi- 
dence of his resolute endeavors to improve himself in all that 
promised to advance his usefulness and success. " I have 
been studying surveying," he writes to one of his brothers : 
" I have received instructions from a gentleman who has made 
a handsome fortune by surveying western lands. He has an 
excellent set of instruments, and charges me nothing for the 
use of them, or for the instruction he gives me." Of his 
associates, he says : " My companions are very different 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 305 

from a part of my society in Hamilton." The expression 
must not be understood as intimating that he had ever min- 
gled in the society of the vicious or worthless — a young man 
should aim at a much higher standard than merely to shun 
the society and habits of the profligate. Frivolity and the 
company of those who devote themselves to what are re- 
garded as the harmless gaieties and recreations of life, present 
far more imminent perils to those who go out from a Chris- 
tian family into the world. Every Christian minister will 
acknowledge, that the most common source of anxiety 
regarding the young of his flock, is not the influence of the 
openly wicked or dissipated, but of those who occupy the 
intermediate ground of levity and folly. 

It can never be sufficiently lamented that of late years 
churches have frequently endeavored to promote their popu- 
larity and worldly success, by the direct sanction of the tri- 
fling, which is the bane of worldly society, in gatherings held 
under a variety of names and pretexts, which are not other- 
wise distinguished from parties of pleasure-seekers than that 
the evening's folly is opened and concluded by the forms of 
prayer. 

This is not the place to reply to the arguments by which 
such practices are defended. But it must be felt by all who 
have witnessed their operation, that in all such unions the 
church goes down to the world, she cannot bring the world 
up to her place. She strips herself of spiritual power, while 
she flatters herself that she is bringing the world within her 
influence ; and exposes the inexperienced of the flock to the 
worst influences of worldliness, under the plea of removing 
the temptation to seek the same kind of recreation elsewhere. 
How many solemn impressions and convictions have received 
their death-blow in such scenes ? How many who did run 
well, if asked what did hinder them, will point to the same 
associations ? And what mockery and scorn of the profession 
of Christians have been there awakened, eternity only will 
reveal. 



306 LIFE OF SILAS N. K END RICK. 

Cheerfulness and the most animated intercourse of society 
may, indeed, be the aids alike of intellectual and spiritual 
development, but the line between these and levity and 
frivolity is very distinctly marked, though it demands con- 
stant watchfulness lest the one should degenerate into the 
other. The line between levity and un godliness, between 
frivolity and dissipation, is by no means so distinct ; and the 
experience of thousands will attest that the latter is the na- 
tural termination of the former. In the first instance, and in 
the majority of cases, it is not dissipation, but the habits 
against which we plead, that effectually bars the way of self- 
improvement to the young, and that chills the religious ardor 
of young Christians. Frequently the religious interest, and 
the effort at self-improvement, which have resisted and tri- 
umphed over all open opposition, yield at last to the mere 
levity of some one whose companionship had been sought 
because he bore the Christian name. We are constantly 
taught that we cannot put an old head upon young shoulders. 
Nor, indeed, would we desire to extinguish the vivacity of 
the youthful mind. But the young themselves will remem- 
ber that, when all the palliations of folly have been most 
plausibly urged, it is by a course of sobriety, self-denial, 
earnestness, and self-control, that they are to advance in all 
that lends dignity to the character of a man, that is becoming 
to the character of a Christian, and that promise either use- 
fulness or honorable success in life. We have not far to 
travel in the path of what is termed harmless gaiety and 
amusement, to learn how little akin it is to the path of hap- 
piness, how deteriorating its prosecution is when taken at 
the best, and how frequently and easily it issues in all the 
degradation of profligacy. It is the very path by which the 
most degraded victims of vice reached the brink of ruin. 

We should do great injustice if we left these extracts from 
the letters of Silas N. Kendrick, and these notices of his ex- 
emplary youth, without claiming that he is not to be re- 
garded as a morose and gloomy anchorite. The very reverse 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 307 

of tliis. No one entered with keener zest into the enjoy- 
ments of cultivated society. He was more than cheerful in 
his disposition. The word "joyous" would better express it. 
And while he shrank, with taste and principles alike wounded, 
from buffoonery and boisterous mirth, he had a fine apprecia- 
tion of wit and humor. His letters overflow with genial good 
humor, and sparkle with playfulness ; and the friends of his 
later life can well imagine that no one was more cordially 
welcomed in the social circle than he was, at the period of 
which we now write. He was eminently social, strong in 
his attachments, and constant in his friendship. Those young 
men who are mentioned among his associates, and the com- 
panions of his studies and pleasures in Poultney, were the 
friends of his latest days, and are the foremost among those 
who lament his death. This might well be inferred from 
what we have said .of his attachment to his father, and the 
family, and from the character of the correspondence from 
which we have already quoted. Nothing could be more beau- 
tiful and noble than the love with which he clung to these 
relations of nature. His affection for his sisters were invested 
with a most attractive tenderness ; and this is the proper 
connection to mention the first great grief which fell upon 
him in the death of a sister older than himself. " Oh, my 
dear father," he writes, "the sad intelligence crushes our 
hearts. How can we be reconciled to it — how can we en- 
dure the thought that we are never to see our dear sister 
again ? It is too much for the weakness of nature ; yet I 
would not murmur. I loved her well. She was all that a 
fond mother and an affectionate sister could be to me. She 
always told me my faults, and reproved me when I was 
wrong, which none other but my father has done. But she 
is gone. This world contains but one other so dear to us as 
she was — the kindest and best of fathers. May we not 
murmur because God has taken her home, but rather be 
grateful that she was spared to us so long. 

" Last night was a sleepless, but not a prayerless night 



308 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDKICK. 

with us. Brother is a good boy. He is very steady and 
regular in ail his habits, has abandoned the use of tobacco, 
attends meeting with me every Sabbath, and is all I could 
wish except a Christian." 

Although it does not belong to this period of our history, 
we may mention here, as another illustration of the charac- 
teristic depth and endurance of his affection, that this brother 
ultimately went upon a long voyage, in a whaling ship, and 
has never since been seen by .any one that knew him, or that 
could communicate any information of his fate to an afflicted 
family. It would be difficult to decide whether the letters of 
the father or the son express the more tender anguish and 
anxiety about the lost one. From the time of his departure 
it is the ever-recurring theme of their mutual condolence. 
Silas, from time to time, wrote hundreds of letters of inquiry 
to consuls at foreign ports, and to missionaries in all parts of 
the world, and every friend going abroad was entreated to 
interest himself in the useless search. He never abandoned 
the expectation of Co veil's return, and the last letter which 
he addressed to his father renews the expression of his hope 
and desire. 

A brief period of energetic application sufficed to give him 
a competent knowledge of the trade he had selected, and his 
habits of economy had enabled him to accumulate a small 
capital. He had, moreover, secured the confidence of men 
whose confidence was capital. We find him, therefore, pre- 
paring to establish himself in business, and looking out for 
an eligible opening in the providence of God. But this 
belongs more properly to another chapter of his life ; and, 
since we have in this dwelt upon his attachments and his 
demeanor in the private relations of life, it may neither be 
inappropriate nor useless to conclude with the reply of Dr. 
Kendrick to a letter in which Silas had mentioned, with 
wonted frankness, another tender attachment, and had con- 
sulted his father regarding the propriety of looking forward 
to a union with the object of it. 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KEXDRICL 309 

" The step you are contemplating, my son, is one of great 
importance, and one which, if wisely taken, will, by the 
blessing of God, greatly promote your happiness. In looking 
forward to this, two things must be carefully considered. 
One is that you make the right choice of a person, and the 
other is that you can make adequate provision for the increased 
expense incident to that condition in life. A wise choice is 
the first thing. In this you must prayerfully seek the direc- 
tion of God, and carefully regard his providence. The judg- 
ment, as well as the fancy, should be consulted. Reference 
should be had to the qualities of the mind, as well as to the 
form and features of the earthly mould. The ornaments of 
her spirit are the most precious and unfading, and, with a 
gentle disposition, have more than mortal charms. These 
are not all that a man of moderate fortune needs in a wife. 
The connection is only for this life, which is a state of toil 
and trial. A knowledge of business, fixed business habits, 
with prudence and economy, and a tolerable constitution, are 
needful for a life of usefulness. If the latter is wanting a 
person with a good degree of all the others, must embarrass 
a man of limited means, and almost ensure him a life of 
poverty. 

" You think of a distant period to redeem a present pledge. 
The question seems to be, is it wise to give a pledge of such 
moment to be redeemed two years hence ? Although this 
seems to you a long time, yet how much will it, probably, 
accomplish for you towards procuring a permanent residence ? 
And without that, such a change in your relations would 
embarrass rather than benefit either party. Few have been 
called more frequently than myself to consider this subject 
with solemn and personal interest ; and, in looking to the 
result, I have always preferred to suspend the ultimate deci- 
sion upon the providence of God, the strength and constancy 
of affection, and what should seem best when these have 
arrived. Under these circumstances, after expectation had 
been excited by a series of attentions which were sufficient to 



310 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

justify it, I never felt at liberty to occasion disappointment 
without full and satisfactory reasons. We should ever avoid, 
if possible, being the occasion of suffering to another. It is 
more easy for you to hold yourself disengaged while you 
have any hesitancy on the subject, than to retrace a prema- 
ture step. You will at least make it a subject of prayer. 
Ask your heavenly Father to direct you, who is ever ready 
and infinitely able to do it. I feel a pleasure in having the 
opportunity to contribute any thing to assist your decision. 
After you get all the light you can upon the subject you 
must act upon your own judgment." 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 311 



CHAPTER III. 

THE SEARCH FOR A HOME AND A FIELD OF LABOR. 

Imperfect and fragmentary though the history of a life 
necessarily is, in a brief sketch like the present, derived from 
such materials as are preserved to us, the reader has probably 
gained a correct impression from the last chapter of the rapid 
progress of its subject to maturity of character. The facility 
with which he mastered the trade he had selected was extra- 
ordinary. The industrious improvement of his leisure hours 
promised to render him an intelligent man, as well as an 
accomplished machinist. His general demeanor secured him 
the affections of his friends, the respect and confidence of all 
who knew him, and sent him forward on the next stage of 
life with a high and untarnished reputation. His principles 
were becoming well established, and on the solid basis of a 
renewed nature, he was accumulating an experience which 
eminently fitted him for the sphere of action and toil to which 
the providence of God was soon to point his way. 

He had, from time to time, entertained the purpose of 
leaving Poultney, with a view to establish himself in busi- 
ness. Filial affection and the attractions of first friendships 
turned his thoughts first to Hamilton, but the judgment of 
his father decided against the practicability of following his 
business with success in that village, at a time when its trade 
was unusually depressed. His thoughts were first turned to 
the west by the proposal of one of his uncles, who held a 
public office in Ohio, and who, appreciating the sterling worth 
and integrity of his nephew, offered him liberal terms if he 
would accept a position of trust in the office. Mature de- 
liberation, however, overruled the first inclination to seek 
escape from the drudgery by which success as a machinist 



312 LIFE OF SILAS N". KENDEICK. 

was to be secured, and with the approval of his father, the 
offer was declined. The state of Michigan, fast emerging from 
its condition of pupilage as a territory, was attracting the atten- 
tion to which its position and resources entitle it; and a num- 
ber of circumstances conspired to point Silas' attention to that 
region. His own inclinations were providentially confirmed 
by a visit which his father paid to the west in the autumn of 
1836, for the purpose of aiding in the organization of the 
Baptist Convention of that state, and visiting the mission to 
the Indians at Grand Rapids, under the care of the Baptist 
Board of Foreign Missions. Dr. Kendrick wrote very favor- 
ably of the country and its prospects, and enclosed a formal 
offer from Judge Dexter, of Ionia, on Grand Biver, of a lot 
of land with water power, for the purpose of establishing a 
furnace in that village. 

Silas' decision was reserved till the following spring; 
meanwhile, all his arrangements were made with a view to 
a journey westward as early as the season might permit. 
"Perhaps," he says in a letter to his father, Dec. 2f, 1836, "I 
had better continue at my business here as long as I can with- 
out interfering with my western enterprise. I shall be able 
to raise about three hundred dollars, besides a good set of 
patterns and tools. What time had I better start from here ? 
I shall be alone in the business, and must rely on my own 
exertions, judgment and skill, with God's direction and 
blessing. I mean to begin small and proceed safely." In 
all the correspondence on this important step, there is a per- 
vading reference of every thing to the Divine will, and one 
anxious desire on the part of father and son, to mark and fol- 
low the leadings of God's providence. A year or two pre- 
vious to the point which we have now reached, his father 
wrote to him : " You should, my son, study well the ways of 
of Providence. Enter upon no enterprise without asking 
counsel of God Remember, that his providence presides over 
all things, and holds a rod over his children when they live 
unmindful of him. Wicked men may prosper in this world 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KEXDRICK. 313 

in sin, and meet their punishment in the word to come. But 
not so with the people of God ; ' If my children forsake my 
law, and walk not in my commandments, I will visit their 
iniquities with stripes, and their transgressions with a rod.' 
Remember the counsel of Solomon : ' Trust in the Lord with 
all thy heart and lean not upon thine own understanding. 
In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy 
paths.' Amid all the callings of this life, never forget the 
high calling of God in Christ Jesus." 

We might multiply similar quotations from the earnest 
counsels which accompany the information and suggestions 
which Dr. Kendrick addressed to his son, on the eve of 
setting out for the west; and those who are intimately 
acquainted with him, know how well such counsels were 
appreciated and improved. There are few who regard the 
God of the Bible, who do not profess to hold the doctrine 
involved in these counsels ; but it is not censorious to say 
that there are comparatively few who habitually and practi- 
cally recognize the guidance of the providence and Spirit of 
God. In some overwhelming calamity the thought occurs, 
but as it is an unfamiliar one, the recognition of God's hand 
is, for the most part, formal and uninfmential. At least it 
fails to give the comfort, and produce the sweet submission 
of spirit, which it would do, were our hearts trained to mark 
that hand in the events of every day. From what perplexi- 
ties about the path of duty and the issue of events would it 
relieve us, if we were accustomed to act as though we knew 
that God presides and directs ! He watches closely every 
turn of our course, and has his helps always at hand. A 
young lady, who was obliged by the state of her health to 
seek a southern climate, was on board a steamboat on the 
Ohio river, with no friend near except a brother, like herself 
estranged from God. A train of reflections, one morning, 
left her deeply convinced of her lost condition ; and when 
the boat stopped to land a passenger, she stood by a centre 
table, in profound thought, with her hand resting uncon- 

27 



314 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

sciously upon a Bible. A minister of the gospel stepped on 
board, and was arrested by her appearance. Apologizing 
for the intrusion, he asked a question, the answer to which 
was, in effect, " What shall I do to be saved?" He opened 
the Bible, pointed to a passage in it, and, on the instant, the 
signal to sail obliged him to rush on shore without speaking 
a word. She read the verse indicated, and Christ was 
revealed in her the hope of glory. " Could I have seen 
God's interposition more distinctly, had an angel from heaven 
brought the message ?" she asks, in relating the circum- 
stances. 

And so every day, if our eyes were anointed, we might 
see a hand beckoning ; if our ears were unstopped, we might 
hear a voice going before us saying, "This is the way." 
Not only on great occasions, but in all life's commonplaces, 
it is our privilege to seek and find this guidance. "In 
every thing, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, 
let your requests be made known unto God ; and the peace 
of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your 
hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." 

These thoughts are forced upon us when we look back 
upon the course by which God was about to lead our friend, 
through years of toil and hope, temporary success and fre- 
quent disappointment, to find, at the close of twenty-five 
years of strenuous and well-directed industry, not an ample 
fortune and an old age of worldly honor, but the wreck of 
fortune and health, an early grave ; yet along with these, 
high spiritual attainments, and a crown of glory that fadeth 
not away. The eventful spring came, and prayerfully and 
submissively he went forth whither the providence of God 
seemed to point. The proposal to settle at Ionia was still 
held in reserve, and formed in some sense a basis of his 
investigations. Every where, the introduction of his father's 
name, his own good reputation, and the charm of a frank and 
cordial manner, found him friends. The transparent integ- 
rity of his character, his sound principles and judicious views 



LIFE OF SILAS X. KENDRICK. 315 

of business, gained him confidence, so that at almost every 
stopping place lie had offers of partnership, or opportunities 
of entering into business on favorable terms. 

A proposal from Dr. McQueston, of Brockport, that he 
should take an interest in a furnace which that gentleman 
had established at Hamilton, Canada West, led him to take 
the route for Detroit through that province ; and here he 
made his first experience of the trials and hardships of 
western adventure. "My journey through Canada," he 
writes to his father, " was exceedingly hard. I was twelve 
days in the province traveling by stage, double and single 
wagons, on horseback and on foot. I was sick three days at 
a poor log tavern kept by French people, who could scarcely 
understand a word of English, and the only medicine they 
had was sweet flag tea. Oh, if ever I thought of home and 
my dear friends, it was then." 

The prospects of business at Hamilton seemed preferable 
to any he had seen, but before making a permanent location, 
he thought it due to his father's judgment to visit Michigan 
The letter last quoted from was accordingly written from De- 
troit, where he was welcomed by Mr. Palmer, Mr. Movey, 
and other friends of his father's family, through whom seve- 
ral promising offers of engaging in business again reached 
him. The Ionia proposal was at length set aside, on account 
of the failure of those sources from which he looked for an 
adequate capital. While he waited for some indication of the 
path of duty, an appointment was procured for him from the 
Board of Commissioners of Internal Improvements, to ac- 
company a party to survey the Grand River Railroad. He 
here began to reap the fruits of the improvement of leisure 
hours at Poultney. "My appointment," he writes, " is hono- 
rable, next to the engineer's, and is two grades higher than 
beginners usually obtain. I think I had better accept the 
offer, and go out till the fall, and then commence preparations 
for business next spring." 

Shortly after this, we hear from him in the depths of the 



316 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

wilderness, with a party of fourteen men, accompanied by 
two pack horses to carry tents, blankets, and four weeks' pro- 
visions. In a long letter to his father, he gives a graphic 
account of their adventures, and speaks with animation of the 
enjoyment of ■' life in the bush," " where," he says, " we were 
beyond the clamor of politics, and the cry of 'hard times,' and 
saw no human misery save where we saw a party of Indians. 
My heart bleeds for the poor, ignorant, injured red man. I 
have never before so sensibly felt my dependence on Him who 
never slumbers nor sleeps ; nor so distinctly realized his 
watchful care, as during those days of toil, and nights of ex- 
posure, in that solitude where there was no trace of man. 
Nothing even to remind us of men, and every thing speaking 
of God. I felt my heart glow with gratitude. My faith 
waxed stronger ; and it is a cheerful faith which sees all things 
full of blessings, that such scenes cherish. 

' A sojourn in the vernal woods, 

May teach us more of man, 
Of moral evil, and of good, 

Than all the sages can. ' 

" It is often said that nature is rude ; but it is our want of 
a knowledge of nature that makes us rude. I do not think 
that I have grown wild, as I thought I should, by living in 
the wilderness. On the contrary, I have learned new lessons 
of love ; my heart was brought nearer to God, and I saw, as 
I never saw before, how good all good things are, and how 
good all things might be, were it not for the evil which we do." 

The whole letter is a proof of the correctness of his esti- 
mate of the influence of that deep retirement. Probably he 
never wrote a letter so full of tenderness, of melting remem- 
brance of the departed, overflowing love for father, family, 
and friends, and joyful gratitude in view of all the circum- 
stances of his lot. The train of sentiment is marked by a 
singular beauty and purity, and the style is elevated some- 
times to the very verge of poetry. 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRIOK. 317 

On his return he says, " we shall now be employed in the 
office about six weeks making a map of the work, and calcu- 
lating the amount of cutting and embankment. I am highly 
pleased with the business of engineering. I have the credit 
of having made good proficiency, and having kept the best 
field-book of the party. My duty has been to keep the level, 
the course, face of the country, soil, &c, and a part of the 
time to use the compass." 

To his younger brother he writes from Detroit, September 
26, " I have spent two months engineering on the Michigan 
Northern Railroad. We were four weeks in the woods with- 
out seeing a house or a white man, and two days of the time 
we had no food except boiled rice and hemlock tea. I injured 
my health by sleeping on the damp ground, with only an Indian 
blanket for a bed. Since my return to the city, I have been 
very sick of a bilious fever. My good friend Eastman, took 
the best possible care of me, and the family where I board 
was very kind. I was confined to my bed three months. I 
was advised to abandon engineering ; and shall probably re- 
main where I am during the winter months." 

This sickness was the circumstance that was to determine 
the field of his future exertions. Detained in Detroit for the 
winter, he gladly accepted the offer of a clerkship in the De- 
troit Iron Company's office, where he obtained an experience 
in the transaction of business which developed new faculties, 
and proved of great service in his subsequent career. The 
partner who acted as agent, and the only one who had any 
knowledge of the business, was taken sick, and the entire 
charge of the concern fell upon Silas. He speedily established 
himself in the perfect confidence of his employers ; and in a 
month or two we find him, from keeping the books and making 
sales, transacting the whole business, collecting, purchasing 
stock, making contracts, and taking a general supervision of 
the works. From this, as our readers will anticipate, it was 
an easy step to a partnership, and the question regarding his 
settlement in life was, in the providence of God, determined 

27* 



318 LIFE OF SILAS N. KEN I) KICK. 

apart from the proposals and projects which he or his friends 
had entertained. 

The letter in which he intimates to his father, his first 
engagement as clerk with the company, contains the follow- 
ing passages : " Saturday evening — The labors of the week 
are over, and I have had a good evening's work paying the 
men and taking their receipts. This hour, between nine and 
ten o'clock, is an hour of peculiar interest to me. It always 
brings recollections of our dear Eliza." (The sister whose 
death has been noticed in a previous chapter). " When I 
parted with her, to go to Vermont, we promised to read two 
chapters of the Bible, and meet each other at a throne of 
grace, every Saturday evening, at this hour. I never forgot 
the pledge, and those were happy and profitable hours. We 
read the ISTew Testament once through. The chapters for 
this evening, are Luke 21st and 22d." There could scarcely 
be a more touching and interesting illustration of the rela- 
tions maintained between Dr. Kendrick and his son, than 
is furnished in the reply to this note : "I was much inter- 
ested in the account you gave of the agreement into which 
you entered with your late and much beloved sister, to 
meet at the mercy seat, to read the word of God, and call 
upon his name together every Saturday evening, between 
the hours of nine and ten. Her prayers are ended, and if you 
wish to have her place supplied in this weekly service, you 
may, if you please, consider her father as taking it." 

Little wonder that the first thoughts of such a son, when 
he obtains a prospect of settling in life, should be of finding a 
home and resting place for such a father. " I continue to 
like Michigan, he writes about this time, to his step-mother, 
" and do earnestly hope it may be best for you and father to 
come here and live before long. I fear that father will not 
be able to bear the burden of that institution, much longer ; 
though I know he will never leave it while it seems to be his 
duty to remain there. The institution gains favor where- 
ever it is known, and the account of the last anniversary 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 319 

was very flattering. I am glad that father lives to see 
his labor blessed, and that he already sees that his strength 
has not been spent in vain. " 

It can scarcely be necessary to say, that so soon as there 
was any approach to a settled residence, Silas identified him- 
self with the church in Detroit. The fact that the Baptist 
church then was a feeble body, without a pastor, and in every 
outward circumstance depressed, was but an additional rea- 
son to him to lay hold of its interests with zeal and devotion. 
Through long years of trial and discouragement, the few 
faithful ones of that body, found a rallying point of their in- 
terest and efforts in the Sunday-school. In one of his earli- 
est letters, after entering the employment of the Detroit 
Iron Company, he says : " I have taken a class in the Sab- 
bath-school ; my class consists of seven little boys, to whom 
I feel much attached." This was the small beginning of 
labor in a favorite field of usefulness, in which he was after- 
wards heartily blessed. Hundreds live to-day to bless the 
memory of one whose fidelity and affection, as a teacher, 
won all their hearts. Many of them learned to call him " bro- 
ther." Not a few occupy places in the church and the school 
where his place is left empty, and not a few doubtless will be 
to him for a crown of joy at last. 

But as may well be concluded from what has been recorded 
of his life, and quoted from his correspondence ; his religion 
was not confined to the church and the Sunday-school ; it 
pervaded all the relations of life. All who knew him, knew 
him as a Christian. In a state of society which demanded 
boldness as well as firmness, on the part of the followers of 
Christ, he took his stand with a quiet resolution, which for- 
bade all approaches of profanity and irreligion. And not 
only in the social circle, but amongst irreligious employers, 
he made it understood from the first that nothing was to be 
expected of him, that was unworthy of the Christian name. 
And young, as he was, that consistency did more than secure 
their respect ; it touched their consciences and was the means 



320 LIFE OF SILAS N, KENDKICK. 

of awakening at least one of thera. His religious influence 
was at once felt in the workshops, also — " Furnace men," he 
remarks to his brother, " are not as respectable here, as they 
are at the east. They are dissipated and profane." And it 
was amongst them, that the first decided fruits of his Chris- 
tian fidelity were seen, contrary to all human probabilities. 
We cannot possibly close this chapter more impressively, nor 
give a better view of his character and position at the time, 
then by inserting a kind letter to Mrs. Kendrick, from the vene- 
rable and devoted pastor of the first Presbyterian church in 
Detroit, the Rev. Dr. Duffield. 

"Detroit, Jan. 26, 1860. 
" Mrs. S. K Kendrick : 

" My Dear Friend — Truly and deeply have I sympathized 
with you in the death of your excellent husband. Your loss 
is not yours only, but one that is felt by a large circle of 
friends, and society at large. For more than twenty years 
have I been acquainted with him, and happy to discover the 
development of that meek, loving, ardent piety which cha- 
racterized him. My acquaintance with him commenced soon 
after my removal to this city, and the commencement of my 
ministerial labors here. He was at that time in the family, 
and clerk in the foundry, of our worthy friend Mr. T. Stet- 
son, then an enterprising and diligent conductor of a manu- 
facturing establishment, which employed numerous operatives, 
and was one of the first attempts in our city for the construc- 
tion of machinery to be driven by steam and other mechanical 
power. The influence of religion was neither known nor 
sought in that establishment in the early period of its history. 
The Lord's Day was not sanctified ; and though it was not 
appropriated regularly as other days, for working purposes, 
yet neither the fear of God, nor regard for man, closed the 
door against urgent applications for labor on that sacred day. 

" Mr. Kendrick was a young man at that time, who revered 
the Lord's Day, and loved its Author. It was with him a 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 321 

day to be prized and conscientiously appropriated to the ends 
designed in its appointment. He loved the house of God and 
the place of prayer ; and felt it to be both his duty and his 
privilege to spend it in the exercises of divine worship, the 
acquisition of religious knowledge, and in benevolent efforts 
for the instruction of the young and ignorant, and in whatever 
might advance men's highest and best interests as candidates 
for eternity. Upon entering the establishment of Mr. Stet- 
son, he stipulated to be exempt from secular occupation on 
the Lord's Day, claiming the privilege and owning the obli- 
gation diligently and conscientiously to observe public wor- 
ship. With becoming meekness and firmness, he maintained 
the example of the Christian in this respect, and with gentle 
words of exhortation and remonstrance, as opportunities of- 
fered, sought to lead those with whom he was associated in 
business to think of other than mortal interest. 

" The stand he took arrested the attention of his employer, 
and his prudent counsel and demeanor became the means of 
introducing a religious influence, that wrought eventually a 
great reformation in that establishment. The change which 
took place in the feelings and conduct of its principal mana- 
ger, who, from having lived regardless of the great interests 
of religion, became zealously attached to them, was quickly 
manifest in the order of his household and the demeanor of 
its members. I remember with pleasure the visit I once made> 
when partaking with forty or fifty hands of the evening meal, 
and witnessing the effects which religion had accomplished. 
Before partaking of the provisions upon the table, there was 
not only a blessing asked from God, but other exercises of re- 
ligion appropriate to the evening family devotions were had, 
and participated in by all the boarders. The head of the 
house, seated at the head of his table, opened the Bible which 
lay before him, and which was as regularly deposited in its 
place there as any other furniture of the table, and having 
read a chapter, as usual, engaged in prayer with the numer- 
ous hands in his employment. Not a few of them became 



322 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

pious, and the order of the establishment formed a perfect 
contrast with what had once been witnessed. The temper- 
ance pledge was adopted by many of the hands, after the ex- 
ample of Mr. Kendrick and Mr. Stetson, and the good then 
wrought there has outlasted the machines produced, and has 
left to this day the savor of its memory. 

" It rejoiced your husband's heart to see the manner in which 
God had answered his prayers and honored his consistent 
example as a follower of the blessed Redeemer in the con- 
versions and general reformation that occurred in the foundeiy. 
I doubt not that you have in your sad and solitary moments, 
often thought of the reminiscences which Mr. Kendrick bore 
with him in after-life from his relations and influence in that 
establishment. Would that we had more of his spirit, and 
of the moral and religious influence which prevailed in that 
foundeiy, to render similar establishments now in our city 
instruments of spiritual and religious, as well as temporal 
food to the hands employed in them. That which is wanted, 
is a care for such things on the part of the owners or con- 
ductors, and the example of that consistent piety which seeks 
the higher interests of men and makes religion and business 
subserve the legitimate and proper end of both, the present 
and lasting welfare of man. It is a pleasant thought with 
which the memory of our departed friend is associated, 
that he never lost sight of the best interests of his fellow 
men or neglected to improve opportunities afforded in the 
providence of God to commend the Saviour whom he loved 
and sought to serve. 

" The very last interview which it was my pleasure to 
have with Mr. Kendrick was in keeping with others which 
often impressed me with this feature of his piety. It was 
but a short time before the Master removed him from this 
life. He had attended the afternoon service in my church. 
I had not observed him during the service, * * * but at 
the close of the services, I found him waiting in the vestibule 
for an interview with me — you also were present and can 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 323 

remember with what deep and earnest interest he related to 
me some scenes he recently witnessed, and some facts he had 
learned relative to the good effects of labors in a Sunday- 
school in this city, in which he had been associated with the 
late excellent and eminently devoted Christian, Mrs. Cass, 
and other members of my church. During a visit to the 
interior of our state, he had been permitted to witness the 
happy influence of religion upon the father and mother and 
other members through the instrumentality of a child that 
had been taught in that school. When she removed with 
her parents to a part of our state where no access could be 
had to a place of public worship, or means of religious 
instruction, she persisted in the practice of what she had 
learned and maintained, an attachment to divine things 
which, by the blessing of Grod, had rendered her father's house 
a Bethel. His whole heart seemed to be moved in the recital, 
and the loving animation and beaming of grateful recollection 
that marked his countenance in that last interview I had with 
him on earth, have embalmed his memory in my thoughts. 
As I now look back upon it, it seems to me to have been 
what I did not then suspect, the last and mellow light which 
his setting sun was pouring forth before it sank, aud was 
shrouded in the rest that remaineth for the people of God. 

" May our kind heavenly Father give us grace, that we be 
not slothful but followers of them, who, through faith and 
patience inherit the promises. 

" With much sympathy, and in the bonds of Christian 
affection, 

" I remain yours truly, 

"GEO. DUFFIELD." 



32i LIFE OF SILAS N. KEXDKICK. 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE CHRISTIAN MAN OP BUSINESS. 

These notices of the trials, adventures, and anxieties of a 
young man, aiming at a settlement in a permanent sphere 
of industry and usefulness, under the guidance of religious 
principle, and with an eye to the guiding providence of God, 
may not be without their use, both in the way of example 
and encouragement, to those who are setting out for the same 
destination. The fact that the circumstances through which 
his path lay are invested with no unusual or romantic in- 
terest, though it may detract from the interest of our narra- 
tive, only increases its practical value. We have spoken of 
his place in life being providentially determined, from the 
time that a severe sickness put a stop to his wanderings and 
led him into the employment of the Detroit Iron Company. 
It is not unimportant to notice, that the religious influence he 
was enabled to exert in the establishment, bore the blessed 
fruits, already mentioned, while he was only their clerk, and 
before he became a partner. A partnership, on very advan- 
tageous terms, was soon offered to him when his value and 
worth were so clearly demonstrated, but it was not till after 
months of prayerful consideration that he ultimately deter- 
mined to accept it. His father was still his confidant and 
counsellor ; and as this sketch aims at being useful to others, 
rather than to eulogize its subject, one or two extracts from 
Dr. Kendrick's letters may be inserted here, with profit to 
those who have no godly father to counsel them in the peril- 
ous outset of life : 

" I am glad to hear," he remarks, " that Providence is open- 
ing to you a door for usefulness, and that you are engaged in 
a Sabbath -school. The more intently you have your eye on 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 325 

the indications of Providence, the less you will be liable to 
err from the path of duty. In deciding amongst various 
prospects, you will consult not only sound business men, but, 
above all, the will of God. Endeavor not to extend your 
responsibilities beyond your means. The safe side is gen- 
erally the best. By a simple act of indiscretion some have 
ruined themselves for life. Never jeopardize your reputation 
by lending your name to others. ' Be not thou one of them 
that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts If 
thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed 
from under thee V God has often frowned upon his children 
for disregarding his counsel in this matter, and left them to 
feel the smart." 

Again, he says : 

" Thousands of dollars may be sacrificed by premature en- 
terprise, and the sufferer left in deep waters for a long time. 
'Better is a little, with the fear of the Lord, than great 
measure, and trouble therewith.' The instruction of the 
Saviour, to count the cost before we begin to build, is of 
great importance in temporal, as well as spiritual affairs. 
Small means, well managed, will provide us with the com- 
forts of life, when God is pleased to bless them. We often 
defeat our usefulness and happiness by avaricious desires ; 
and often part with our substance for baubles, and lose them 
after all. You know, my son, that a life of self-denial, 
prayer and perseverance, is essential to our enjoyment of 
daily peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ. I 
hope you will not be weary and faint in the conflict with sin, 
but wait on God, and so renew your strength." 

Such extracts might be multiplied, did the space allotted 
permit. Enough has already been quoted to show the coun- 
sels and considerations under which Silas arrived at the con- 
clusion, announced to his father in July, 1838, — " I am 
permanently located here, and shall probably make this my 
sphere of action for life." An account of the anxieties and 
toils through which that life lay, would perhaps contribute 

28 



326 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

little either to the usefulness or interest of this chapter. It 
may well be imagined, that while the moral and religious in- 
fluence which he had exerted as a clerk, was more than con- 
firmed when he took his place as a partner, his energy and 
industry were speedily felt, in the advancement of the busi- 
ness, and the position which the firm was enabled to take. 
To him, however, upon whom the responsibility chiefly and 
naturally devolved, it was a position rather of toil than profit. 
The wonder to all his friends, was, that through years of per- 
plexity and care, and ceaseless application, he still found 
calmness of spirit, and abundant opportunity for the claims 
of religion and benevolence. Want of time was never urged 
as the excuse of neglected duty, nor business cares as the 
justification of coldness or languor in the discharge of duty. 
It may be remembered that, at the close of the second 
chapter, a tender attachment was alluded to, and the judi- 
cious counsel of his father was recorded. That counsel was 
followed, but his true heart at once returned to the subject, 
when there was a prospect of such advancement in his worldly 
circumstances, as would render an engagement honorable and 
marriage prudent. A proper regard to the feelings of her 
who, now in widowhood, patiently awaits the time of an eter- 
nal union, compels us reluctantly to withhold from our youth- 
ful readers, the noble example of the steps which, as a Chris- 
tian and a true man, he took towards an earthly union. With 
accustomed confidence he consults his father, and, after hav- 
ing spoken frankly and fervently of his attachment and its 
object, he says : "I should be happy to present my father and 
mother with a daughter well worthy of their parental regard 
— one whom our dear Eliza would have loved as a sister. I 
think too highly of my dear father's love, to form a union 
which he would not sanction. Should he deem it imprudent 
for the present, I would even now forbear to commit myself 
to any engagement." The reply to this may be inferred from 
what is already known of his father's sentiments and charac- 
ter, A letter addressed to the parents of his intended lies 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 327 

before us, a model of candor, manliness, and delicacy. But 
perhaps it is as much as we ought to say on this subject, that, 
in the issue, Dr. Kendrick gladly accompanied his son to 
Vermont, and on September 12th, 1838, united him in mar- 
riage to Fanny, the youngest daughter of Captain William 
Coeley, of East Randolph, in that state. 

Now settled in life, and united with the object of his early 
and tried affection, who, we may be permitted to say, was not 
only eminently qualified to make home happy for such a hus- 
band, but to be his fellow-laborer in every good work, Mr. 
Kendrick at length fairly entered upon the course of Christian 
usefulness, which will long be remembered in the community 
which he blessed. The circumstances of the Baptist church 
now assumed a more promising aspect. After being long 
destitute of any but occasional supply in their pulpit, Dr. O. 
C. Comstock accepted their call to the pastoral office, and 
shortly after the commencement of his labors, Silas wrote, — 
" The church is in a lively state. Dr. Comstock has baptized 
twenty-five since the first of May. The church is small and 
poor, but is, I trust, united in love. Since I came here there 
has been an increase of one hundred and twenty in the num- 
ber of scholars in the Sabbath-school." Dr. Comstock's con- 
nection with the church, was the commencement of one of 
Silas' most cherished friendships, which continued till the 
hour of his death. And as that aged servant of God has 
now also been gathered to his fathers, it may be permitted to 
one who knew and loved him, to embrace this opportunity 
of paying an humble tribute of respect to his fragrant 
memory. " I thank you," says Dr. Kendrick, in a letter to 
Silas, " for the interesting mention you made of my old friend 
Dr. Comstock. I hope you will do all you can to hold up 
his hands. It will be an honor to you to be among his right 
hand friends and supporters." Dr. Comstock was not the 
last pastor of that church who has reaped the benefit of this 
paternal counsel, in the son's true-hearted and disinterested 
support, amid the trials of their position. Unhappily for the 



828 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

cause, Dr. Comstock's connection with the church was soon 
terminated. Since his removal there has been a number of 
successors in the office. The other members of the church 
will not regard it as disrespectful or invidious, to say that 
among those who have occupied the position of pastor there, 
there is but one sentiment as to the pre-eminent comfort and 
aid which the love and labor of Silas Kendrick uniformly 
afforded them. Dr. Colver, one of the number; writing to 
Mrs. Kendrick after her husband fell asleep, says : "I do not 
know how to speak of him. There are none with whom I 
can compare him. Others may have been as good, but they 
were not like him, so utterly unselfish ; and there was a kind 
of maidenly delicacy in his affectionate attentions, which lent 
them an indescribable charm. He was one of the few, the 
very few indeed, who never failed in all our social intercourse 
to command both my respect and love. He magnified his 
office in the church of God, and holds a place in my recollec- 
tion of him as a deacon, distinct from all others, more nearly 
than any other answering the description of the martyr-dea- 
con, — ' a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost.' " Mr. Has- 
call, another of the number, writes : " There was a most con- 
siderate, unassuming, and persevering endeavor on his part, 
to encourage and aid a young pastor in the difficult and em- 
barrassing labors which he must encounter. His time, 
thought, and money, though subject to pressing demands in 
his business, could always be relied upon when our Christian 
work had need of them ; and the language of hope and good 
cheer seemed his Christian vernacular." 

As has already been intimated, he carried his Christianity 
every where. In all the relations of his life it was felt, and 
without waiting for extraordinary occasions, every passing 
hour seemed to bring with it an opportunity of doing good. 
In the workshops, in the counting room, in the transaction of 
business, in the social circle, in a casual meeting upon the 
street, he would still be readily known as a Christian. There 
was, perhaps, an opportunity of speaking a word of encour- 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 329 

ageinent to the young and timid, of counseling those for 
whom no man cared, of rebuking sin, or affectionately pressing 
the consideration of eternity upon the thoughtless, and it was 
all accompanied with additional power because it came at a 
time or in circumstances when it was most unusual to hear 
such words. The manner in which truth is spoken is only 
second in importance to the truth spoken ; and he had a 
special gift of manner. His quiet, affectionate look, his 
musical and expressive voice, and the gentleness of his bear- 
ing, coupled with a peculiar tact in approaching the subject, 
enabled him to address those who seemed most unapproach- 
able, on the subject of religion, not only without giving 
offence, but in such a way as to excite their gratitude. But 
what had special influence upon this result was the considera- 
tion that what he said was so much in keeping with the whole 
tone of his life. A gentleman who spent some years in his 
employment, and who is now pastor of a Congregational 
church, says : 

" Once, when I was sick, he would come up to my room 
every morning, noon and night, and if any thing of interest 
had happened in the city, he would sit down and tell it to 
me, in hopes of relieving the weariness of my confinement. 
He never wounded my feelings by an impatient word during 
my whole stay with him. I do not recollect of his urging 
me to become a Christian, and yet if I am a Christian, next 
to my faithful father, I owe it to Silas Kendrick. I did not 
want him to talk to me formally. I knew that he wished 
me to be a Christian ; his whole life was an entreaty to me, 
and I understand now what the Lord meant when he said : 
1 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your 
good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.' " 

Among other qualities which greatly aided his power to 
influence others, and to do good, was his complete self-pos- 
session, joined to a promptitude of action which occasionally 
assumed the appearance of impulsiveness. Of his extraordi- 
nary self-control a friend mentions the following example : 

28* 



830 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

" While working at his trade at Poultney, in Vermont, one 
afternoon, he was casting a thin stove-plate, and his iron 
required to be very hot when taken into the ladle, and to be 
poured in haste before cooling, he had just filled his ladle 
when a 'shot' of the metal struck his limb, and burning 
through the clothing, finally lodged in the heel of his boot. 
He could not stop to attend to himself till his casting was 
made, and then he found that the iron had burned into his 
heel to the depth of one-third of an inch. His extraordinary 
control of his feeling was often manifested during his later 
years of suffering. When in leisure moments during business 
hours, with none but his clerks present, the deep lines upon 
his countenance, his pale and languid look, would indicate 
what he endured from a severe chronic disease — if a friendly 
or business visitor came into the office his animation was 
instantly restored, and his usual reply to the salutation, 
" Mr. Kendrick, I am glad to see you looking so well to-day," 
was, " I am better, I thank you," and he entered with spirit 
upon some subject of interest. As an example of his self- 
possession and practical promptitude, it is mentioned that on 
one occasion, when a party of men were lowering a steam 
engine from the second story of the machine shop, to load it 
on a dray, just as the engine swung out from the upper door 
Mr. Kendrick saw the rope by which it was suspended 
11 stranding," as it called, that is one strand after another was 
breaking and unwinding, he instantly grasped the rope with 
both hands, and arrested its destruction till the dray men 
could jump aside, saved from being crushed by the ponderous 
mass which, the next instant, came down, crushing the axle 
of the dray, and burying itself in the ground. Mr. Kendrick 
found the flesh hanging in shreds from his bleeding hands, 
but thought himself amply repaid for some days of intense 
suffering by the consciousness of having saved a human 
life. 

These qualities were closely allied to courage. And there 
were few braver men than he ; while his gentleness of man- 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 331 

ner, and the slenderness of his frame, often made the display 
of courage more impressive. The influence of such calm 
resolution over the most violent natures is unbounded. "At 
one time," says a friend, " Mr. Kendrick, in company with 
another member of the Young Men's Benevolent Society, 
visited a man who, crazed by alcohol, had driven his family 
into the street, and guarded the door of his dwelling on the 
inside with a drawn broadsword. Mr. K.'s companion 
thought " discretion the better part of valor," but Mr. K. 
at once seized the collar of the belligerent with one hand, 
and the sword with the other, and with a determined look 
and tone, ordered him to surrender. He did not think it best 
to dispute the authority, and the family were soon reinstated 
in their home. 

Upon another occasion he learned that one of his work- 
men, a rigid Catholic, had become insane, and for two days 
had kept his family kneeling at a table, while he stood with 
an axe ready to kill the first one who should attempt to rise. 
The Roman Catholic Bishop and the man's physician, as well 
as all the neighbors, had retreated before the glancing steel. 
Mr. Kendrick, on hearing of it, hastened to relieve the terri- 
fied family. On arriving at the house, he instantly entered 
the room, calmly looked at the uplifted axe, and to the 
maniac's exclamation, " Take care, Mr. Kendrick ; I shall 
kill you," he replied, "No, you will not kill me. Give me 
that axe ;" and the demand was immediately complied with- 

Although the following incident, which is related by the 
same friend, belongs to a much more advanced period of this 
sketch, we introduce it here, as an illustration of the charac- 
ter which was expanding in usefulness through all these 
years of benevolent effort: — In the summer of 1849, a 
poor Englishman died of cholera in a small house in 
Detroit. As the family had no friends, and a general 
fear of that disease prevailed among the inhabitants, no one 
could be found to perform the last rites for the dead, or offer 
comfort and assistance to the widow with her three little 



382 LIFE OF SILAS K. KEXDRICK. 

children. The case came to the knowledge of Mr. Kendrick, 
and he at once set out for the desolate house. On reaching 
it, he first dismissed the idle crowd who had assembled to 
gratify their curiosity, but had not courage to take a nearer 
view than from the outside of the doors and windows ; he 
then washed the corpse, and procured grave clothes and a 
suitable coffin. Some of his apprentice boys volunteered to 
act as bearers, and, having ordered carriages, he accompanied 
the family to the last resting-place of their head and support. 
He returned with the family to their home of poverty, where 
the first question to be answered was, " Where can bread be 
found for these little ones ?" Temporary relief was furnished 
by the first friend they had found in a strange land, and he 
soon after found employment for the mother, who was a 
strong, healthy woman, able and willing to work. She was 
enabled to clothe and educate her children, and accumulated 
about one thousand dollars in six years, by the judicious 
investment of her little savings, in accordance with Mr. 
Kendrick's advice. Then she too died, leaving her children 
with the assurance that " Mr. Kendrick would advise them 
in everything." Some Roman Catholics among their neigh- 
bors, when they found that there was some property left, 
succeeded in obtaining an influence over the oldest child, a 
girl of some seventeen years, and the children were with- 
drawn from their best earthly friend, who soon lost all 
knowledge of them. 

It will readily be understood, that such a mind necessarily 
acquired a powerful influence for good among a large body 
of workmen. His intercourse with them was always pleasant. 
One of the most prominent of them has often remarked, that 
" Mr. Kendrick's refusal to comply with a request was more 
acceptable than the reluctant consent of others. Much of his 
time that could be spared from business, was spent in inter- 
course with them, in aiding and counseling all, assisting the 
older to provide homes for their families, and encouraging 
the younger to persevere in acquiring their trades perfectly, 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICL 333 

and to prosecute a course of virtue and self-improvement. 
The men on their part were not slow to return his kindly 
feelings, some of them remained in the establishment through 
the greater part of the period of his connection with it. He 
lost none of their good will by being a strict disciplinarian. 
No drunkenness, nor profanity was tolerated about the shop, 
and ultimately, its reputation for order and good morals 
rendered parents anxious to place their sons under his care. 
The friend from whom we have already quoted, says : " He 
was flooded with applications for apprenticeships. Even 
men of wealth and standing were desirous to place their sons 
in his shop. An eminent lawyer in Detroit had two sons 
there, an ex-governor sent his son to him-, a wealthy ship- 
owner in [New York City had a son there ; clergymen had 
sons there ; young men came from Vermont and other New 
England states to work for him. While I was with him, 
the shop contained a number of intelligent and refined young 
men, some of them masters of two or three languages." 

Incidents illustrative of his active and wise benevolence 
might be collected to fill volumes, but the object of this sketch 
is served, when we have selected a few which may show the 
man as he was, and leave a distinct impression of his example 
upon the minds of those who enjoy similar opportunities of 
serving God and man in love. We conclude this chapter 
with a letter from a much esteemed friend of Mr. Kendrick, 
than whom none knew him better, the Rev. Andrew Ten- 
Brook, formerly pastor of the Baptist church in Detroit : 

" The character of Mr. Kendrick's mind was that of activity, 
quickness, clearness of conception, with taste for the beautiful 
in nature and art, but without a great amount of either taste 
or patience for long and laborious investigation, or for the 
detailed results of such processes when presented by others. 
Eor that kind of wit, and such is all genuine wit, which is 
nothing more or less than a striking conclusion condensed 
into a pair of words, he had an extraordinary readiness, both 
in appreciation and use ; and the round-about processes he 



334: LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

was not fond of. Mr. Kendrick's wit, however, was under 
the control of a conscience as nearly as possible faultless, and 
a tender regard for the feelings of those addressed. It was 
used to amuse and instruct, never to injure and wound. It 
was employed, perhaps, more than for any other purpose, to 
express, with brief and striking force, his view of the person 
or subject under consideration. There have been very few 
persons who could make better use of this power to introduce 
the subject of religion, or any question in business or social 
life which might be supposed, for any reason, to be a little 
unpleasant. He would make a person addressed half smile 
at the happy turn of thought, and then yield without oppo- 
sition and even with good will to what he might be disposed 
to say. 

"In illustration of his sensitiveness to the honor of re- 
ligion, it may be mentioned that, in the winter of 1846, he 
was so embarrassed that he saw no way but that his creditors 
must suffer by him. Lest his prominence should bring a re- 
proach to religion, he declined acting in his official character 
as a deacon of the church, until his embarrassment should 
have passed by ; but he allowed no diminution of his sense 
of responsibility as a Christian man. During the time here 
referred to, he, with yourself, visited us in Ann Arbor, and 
remained about a week. He nearly broke down in body, and, 
occasionally, in the intervals of his cheerfulness, showed a 
sadness which did not belong to his nature. Immediately on 
his return to Detroit, a little advice, and perhaps a little aid 
from his friends there, brought about an arrangement by 
which he could go on with his business, and from this time 
on he prospered. I ought here to add, that the visit just 
mentioned was quite an exception, growing out of his sus- 
pension of business. His visits were generally but the va- 
cant moments, or half-hours of business life. 

" The last remark suggests one characteristic, in which 
your late husband was, in my opinion, quite unrivalled. I 
refer to the skill with which he could contrive to slip in by 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 335 

the side of his business, without injury, perhaps even with 
advantage to it, some social or religious object. Although 
he traveled much on business, it would not be too much to 
say that he never did so, and scarcely walked a rood through 
the streets of Detroit, without bringing some such object to 
concur with his business. An interval of a few minutes be- 
fore the departure of a train of cars, or a stage-coach, or a 
half hour in the evening, when his business had been done 
up in some city or village from home, where he must spend 
the night, was put to the best use, in taking the hand of some 
old or new friend or acquaintance. 

" Those who lived in Detroit, in 1844, will not fail to re- 
member the explosion of the boiler of the small steamer, 
1 General Yance,' in the summer of that year, attended with 
the loss of somewhere between half-a-dozen and a dozen hu- 
man lives. Captain Woodworth, who owned and ran this 
boat, had, in connection with other members of the same 
family, owned and kept Woodworth's Hotel, in Detroit ; and 
not liking his business very well, had sold out his share of the 
hotel, and invested the avails in the purchase and repair of 
this old boat, with a view of running it between Detroit and 
Monroe. The boat being ready for service, Captain W. in- 
vited Mr. Kendrick on board to see how it was fitted up and 
furnished. Having surveyed the whole, they returned to the 
cabin and sat down, when Mr. Kendrick took occasion to sug- 
gest to the captain, the responsibility of his undertaking, the 
demands of religion in general, and the sanctity of the Lord's 
Day in particular. He had the satisfaction of finding that he 
was addressing himself to a conscience already exercised on 
the same subject, and that this had been a main reason for 
getting out of the hotel. 

" To tell a part of the story which has less connection with 
your husband — a careful engineer, a member of the Baptist 
church in Detroit, was employed to run the engine. He had 
just given up a good place, because he would not work on 
the Lord's Day, and it was hoped that his known carefulness 



336 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICL 

would be a compensation for the insecurity of the old engine. 
The boat, however, was destined not long to run. A few 
trips were made in safety ; but the captain, inexperienced in 
his new business, started one morning from the American 
side of the river, without informing the engineer of his de- 
sign to stop on the opposite shore. The boiler was too 
nearly empty, and the steam was making too fast to admit 
of this stop, which the engineer had not expected, and for 
which he had not therefore provided ; and, as soon as possi- 
ble, he threw open his valve, and sprang upon the railing to 
call to the captain, and say to him that it was not safe to 
stop. Precisely at this moment the explosion, which many 
of us distinctly heard in our houses, occurred. The captain 
was thrown many feet into the air, and fell mangled and life- 
less into the river. Several others were killed, while Mr. 
Gaylord, the engineer, was thrown with but slight injury 
upon the deck of a vessel lying along side. The occurrence 
of this disaster led Mr. Kendrick to narrate to me the sub- 
stance of his conversation with the unfortunate captain in 
the cabin of the steamer ; and this he did for the purpose of 
showing the tenderness of Captain Woodworth's religious 
impressions. But for the disaster, this incident, in common 
with hundreds of others, tending to show the religious influ- 
ence which he was ever shedding along the pathway of his 
business life, might have remained unknown, for lie was not 
the man to proclaim them. 

" As a social and religious man, it was a principle with him, 
to make the interest of business and those of social and reli- 
gious life all lie in one direction, that he might serve them 
all at once ; in other words, instead of dividing his time sys- 
tematically so as to give to business, society, and religion, 
each its part, he gave to each the whole. He gave himself 
less time to the mere formalities of religion than most reli- 
gious men, but he gave much more to the subject itself, since 
he never for a moment lost sight of it in his business. What 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 337 

his hands found to do, he did with his might, the instant the 
opportunity occurred. 

" Mr. Kendrick's character was not pre-eminently that of a 
public man, and he never seemed to seek that kind of noto- 
rity which is too often the motive for pressing one's way 
before the public ; yet, several public enterprises have been 
indebted to him for a quiet kind of service, which I trust, 
will not be overlooked in a memoir of him. The Baptist Con- 
vention of Michigan, and some of the particular movements 
connected with it, such as starting the Michigan Christian 
Herald, with which he had much to do, next to his own 
church and Sunday-school, are most prominent among them. 

" Your husband was not a public speaker, and for a rea- 
son so complimentary to himself that I am tempted to state 
it. There is an anecdote to the effect, that a military officer 
in one of the colonies of Great Britain, was once, in the days 
of Lord Mansfield, appointed to the bench ; and doubtful 
how he might be able to acquit himself in this position, he 
wrote to the great English jurist for advice. The latter 
replied, assuring him that he had no reason for hesitation in 
accepting the place, for his decisions would always be right, 
but he advised him not to attempt to give the reasons for 
them for the reasons would always be wrong. Strange as 
this opinion may seem, it is beyond all doubt, in innumerable 
instances correct. The officer had been accustomed to com- 
mand and to act, and never to state in words his reasons for 
a command or an act, and any attempt to recall and state the 
steps of the logical process, would have ended in a failure, 
the reasons would have been so imperfectly or incorrectly 
expressed, as to be unsatisfactory to himself and every one 
else. So it was with Mr. K., he was a man of action. 
What he said was all conclusions, not arguments. It 
was only in mathematics of which his business of building 
engines, gave frequent occasion for the application, that he 
was accustomed to state even to his own mind, all the suc- 
cessive steps in the process of argument, which supported 

29 



338 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDKICK. 



his conclusions. In all moral questions he stated merely 
those conclusions which stand in most immediate connection 
with action, and generally so clearly, forcibly, wittily, and 
stirringly, that any argument which he could have offered 
would have blunted their point. 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 339 



CHAPTER Y. 

MATURE MANHOOD IN ITS TOILS AND TRIALS. 

The steady and vigorous influence for good in the more 
public relations of a man of God, will be found concentrated 
and more intense in the private relations of life, so far as 
these can be examined. There is, indeed, a fictitious piety and 
philanthropy which requires the stimulus of notoriety ; and 
there is a hazard of encouraging these counterfeits by every 
effort to preserve the memory of those who have distinguished 
themselves in the walks of Christian usefulness. Imperfect 
as is the sketch here preserved of the life of Silas N. Ken- 
drick, the impression has, we trust, already been made, that 
although his profession of the faith was public, and the mani- 
festation of the grace of God in his life clear as a light in the 
midst of darkness, it was still of a kind which did nothing to 
be seen of men, which was carried into the walks of every- 
day life, but which shrank sensitively from notice and ap- 
plause. But if we could in our narrative follow him from 
the church, the Sunday-school, the general intercourse of 
society, and the peculiar sphere of usefulness he found in a 
large workshop, into the domestic circle and the closet, we 
should see that the nearer we approached to the sanctuary of 
his own spirit, we were evidently nearer to the centre of that 
influence which diffused itself, in ever-widening circles, to all 
the relations of earth. And it would be found that those who 
had the best opportunity of close observation in the more 
intimate relations of life, are those who retain the highest 
admiration of his Christian excellence, and who cherish his 
memory with the most sacred tenderness. 

One who was for years a member of his happy family 
circle, writes to Mrs. Kendrick on the occasion of her be- 



340 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

reavement: " Words cannot tell what Silas was, or record 
his daily deeds of love, unselfish acts of kindness, with gen- 
erous words and whole-souled sympathy, scattered like sand 
through his whole life. Gone, gone to his reward ; setting 
aside all the great goodness of his life as nothing, and rest- 
ing in the merits of his Saviour. My heart is full when I 
think of the long, pleasant acquaintance I have had with him. 
Few knew him better than I did, few have penetrated further 
into the great depths of his heart than I have. To me he 
was the kindest of brothers, and my recollection of him — 
his sympathy, kindness and friendly intercourse, are among 
the pleasantest of my life. We shall know him no more 
here, but how much better our lives may be for having 
known him." 

Mr. Kendrick had no children, but his own disposition, 
seconded in its impulses by his partner in life, gathered 
around their fireside a circle to whom he really was the 
wisest and best of fathers. They were never without some 
young friends or relatives, who made their house a home ; 
and not a few of them look back to that home as their spirit- 
ual birth-place. One fact will tell more to the reader, of his 
domestic piety, and the exaltation and consistency of his 
every-day deportment, than whole volumes of panegyric. Of 
the youthful friends who, for a succession of years, enjoyed 
the privilege of residing beneath his roof, scarcely one left it 
without having made a credible profession of the faith, and 
without tracing their conversion under God to his fidelity — 
and the impressive testimony of his life, more than to any 
other human instrumentality. 

The year 1845, was a year of great spiritual blessing to 
the church of which he was a member, and in that he not 
only largely shared, but was also a prominent instrument 
used by God in the communication of that blessing. There 
were monthly additions to the church, till at the close of the 
year over seventy persons were baptized, besides those who 
were otherwise received. The first who found the Saviour 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 3-il 

at that season, was a member of his family. Among the 
earliest, were the foreman and two machinists employed in 
the foundery; and to them, others were constantly added 
from beneath his more immediate influence. In the com- 
mencement of 1846, he writes to his father : " We have never 
before seen the church so generally engaged in the work, or 
the interest so general and extended among impenitent per- 
sons, old and young. I wish I could tell all the particular 
cases of interest. Some date their first religious impressions 
from Sunday-school instruction, some from the faithful preach- 
ing of our pastor, some from witnessing the ordinance of bap- 
tism, and one, a Roman Catholic, from hearing Mr. Dean and 
Ko-a-Bak, whom curiosity led her out to see." The rapid 
increase of youthful and inexperienced members brought with 
it a great weight of responsibility of the most delicate charac- 
ter, and it was here that the peculiar gifts of our friend found 
their most congenial field of exercise. His gentleness and 
his loving sympathy at once found access to their hearts ; his 
wisdom and judicious counsel secured their confidence ; his 
matured experience and scriptural attainments rendered him 
an able teacher; while his frank, cheerful and attractive man- 
ners rendered his presence always welcome among the more 
youthful, who most needed his aid, and whom yet it was 
most difficult to reach. In the fluctuations of western society 
comparatively few remain upon the spot after a lapse of four- 
teen years, but there are many scattered over the land who 
carry with them the influence of his example, and the grate- 
ful remembrance of his services at that important period in 
the formation of their religious characters. 

How frequently in the providence of God, spiritual bless- 
ings and temporal losses, come linked together in the life of 
the believer ; and the one as much as the other, are seen to 
be expressions of a father's love ! Mr. Kendrick had been 
laboring with diligence in his worldly calling. The business 
of the company had fallen almost entirely into his hands, and 
by industry and integrity he was gradually rising above the 

29* 



342 LIFE OF SILAS N". KENDRICL 

embarrassments that surrounded its early history. In the 
close of the year 1844, we find him writing to his father more 
hopefully than ever, of its prospects. He speaks of business 
pressing, and in December he says, " the winter will be a 
busy one to me, if life and health are spared." All these 
prospects vanished in an hour ; but we shall let his own pen 
tell the story. 

In a letter to his father, dated March 18, 1845, he says : — 
" It is not with a sad heart, or the least disposition to complain, 
or even feel that it is hard, that I tell you that our old temple 
of industry lies low, and is smouldering a little yet. Last 
Saturday morning, at two o'clock, fire broke out in the middle 
of the buildings ; the wind was blowing freshly from the west, 
and in about thirty minutes, all was gone, except the pattern 
loft, the wareroom, barn, and a part of the furnace building. 
I reached the office in time to save all our books and papers. 
Nothing was removed from the engine shop, smith's shop, 
boiler shop, pattern shop, machine room, or turning room. 
These contained about seventeen thousand five hundred dol- 
lars worth of machinery. We have about six thousand dollars 
worth of stuff left. I cannot speak confidently of our future 
course, but shall try to pay all our debts first, and then rebuild 
if we can. I do not wear a long face about it, or feel that I 
need pity, for I deem it the least calamity that could have 
befallen us. I was getting too fast a hold of the world. I 
had just made a bargain for the most desirable vacant pro- 
perty in the city, where I thought I should make a home for 
both our little families, during the years that remain to us ; 
and I still hope that it may be so, though I have learned to 
calculate with less certainty than before the fire. We do not 
bewail the loss, ' Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him." , 

The cheerful resignation with which he contemplated the 
destruction of years of enterprise and industry, and the fairest 
promise of worldly success, was not a mere matter of words. 
The undiminished cheerfulness and alacrity of his devotion 
to his place in the church and society, were a practical ex- 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDSICK. 84:3 

pression of it, not to be mistaken. The letter from which we 
have quoted the announcement of the fire to his father, is filled 
up with accounts of the progress of the work of grace to 
which we have above alluded. The principal influence of the 
calamity, so far as it could be discovered by his friends, was 
a most manifest advancement in his spirituality and devoted- 
ness. His letters for the next few months, especially those 
to his unfailing confidant and counselor, at Hamilton, con- 
tain many expressions of solicitude about the fulfillment of 
contracts, and the payment of debts ; and they show that he 
is in deep and prayerful earnestness about the path of future 
duty ; but beyond this, there is not a word that intimates re- 
gret, far less repining, at the dispensation of God's provi- 
dence, which had stripped him of every worldly possession. 
Misfortunes, it is said, never come singly, and following close 
upon this calamity, his own health began to fail, the health of 
his beloved companion showed the effects of her over-exer- 
tions to aid in retrieving their fortunes, the death of Mrs. 
Manning, a Christian friend, beloved as a sister, and an in- 
mate of his family, and the accident which laid the foundation 
of his revered father's prolonged and intense bodily suffer- 
ings, seemed to heap sorrow upon sorrow; but at the close of 
a few months, we find him thus summing up the results : — 
" God's dealings with me for the last year, are the subject of 
much of my thoughts. He has come near to me by sickness, 
by death, and the ravage of the elements ; and, I trust also, 
by his own Spirit. The scenes of the past year have been 
more checkered and varied, than the whole of my life before. 
I feel more weaned from the world, and place a lower esti- 
mate upon its enjoyments than ever before. I love my dear 
friends more than I can tell ; my dear wife is worth more than 
all the world besides ; and I feel, more than ever, the claims 
of Christ upon me. As to my business, it absorbs my time 
and care considerably, because of my obligations to others. 
We are in straitened circumstances, and shall be for a year ; 
but business is good, and if we get through, our property will 



344 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

be valuable. I feel anxious that you should come to live 
with us, that our days may be spent together. I read the 
twenty-third chapter of Isaiah to-night." 

It will be gathered from this quotation that, after much anxi- 
ety, he was once more engaged in business. His reputation 
was a capital to him, and many warm friends were ready to 
aid him. Dr. Kendrick placed a considerable sum in his hands, 
and something was saved from the wreck of his former busi- 
ness. With these he was enabled to form a partnership, and 
the new firm commenced operations on a comparatively small 
scale, in the establishment which, before the lapse of another 
decade of years, had expanded to the ample dimensions of 
the Detroit Locomotiv r e Works, one of the best equipped 
manufacturing establishments in the west, and which, after 
many trials, and great labor, seemed on the point of achieving 
a most triumphant success, when the commercial crisis of 
1857 arrested its progress, and left it under the prostration 
beneath which its founder's enfeebled frame also gave way. 

During the period of suspense after the destruction of the 
foundery, in 1845, a visit to Detroit by one who, till the day 
of Silas' death, occupied a foremost place in the ranks of 
his most cherished friends, promised at one time to give an 
altogether new direction to his life. To speak of the Rev. 
William Dean, D.D., in the terms which affection and judg- 
ment alike dictate, would be offensive to him, and is unneces- 
sary to introduce him to the Christian love and esteem of 
those who will read this sketch. Few of them, if their 
memory reaches back fifteen years, need to be reminded of 
the interest awakened by his return from China with his 
motherless child, accompanied by Ko-a-Bak, a youthful Chi- 
nese, who had been brought to a knowledge of the Saviour 
by his instrumentality. There may have been returned mis- 
sionaries, or other advocates of the missionary cause, whose 
fervid eloquence and impassioned declamation produced more 
violent emotion and greater immediate results, but the im- 
pression of thousands will sustain the remark, that no man 



LIFE OF SILAS KT. KENDRICK. 345 

of late years has been the means of awakening a deeper and 
more lasting interest in the cause of foreign missions, or of 
enkindling more genuine enthusiasm on the basis of current 
conviction. 

At the urgent solicitation of Mr. and Mrs. Kendrick, Dr. 
Dean, accompanied by Ko-a-Bak, came to Michigan to attend 
the meeting of the Baptist State Convention, in the autumn 
of 1845. No one who was present at that convention, can 
ever lose the impression of their visit. Dr. Dean was in 
very feeble health, and, it might have been supposed, was in 
no condition to address any assembly with effect ; but when 
he came to plead that cause in his devotion to which his early 
vigor had been exhausted, that very feebleness, and his pre- 
maturely grey locks, were themselves eloquent. His state- 
ment of facts was clear as a sunbeam. There was no more 
of himself or his adventures in the statement than was abso- 
lutely demanded, and the incidents were selected with taste 
and related with delicacy. There were occasional touches of 
eloquence in his addresses, and usually a peroration full of 
the deepest pathos, which carried every thing before it, with- 
out the slightest apparent effort or consciousness of power. 
The secret of its power, indeed, was not in the mere words 
uttered, but in the spirit which pervaded them. The words 
were manifestly but the imperfect vehicle of thoughts and 
affections originating and sustained in a habitual fellowship 
of the spirit of holiness. The elevation of sentiment and 
the expansion of views expressed in his addresses, were in 
strict keeping with the whole tenor of his character. Ko-a- 
Bak, his companion, was qot naturally either an attractive or 
brilliant specimen of his race. He was ignorant of the Eng- 
lish language, and had not been many years under the influ- 
ence of the gospel. Yet there was something that enabled 
Christians to realize the sympathy of a brother. His appear- 
ance by the side of his teacher, in the costume of his country, 
was in itself an eloquent missionary address ; and now and 
then, in the brief addresses which Dr. Dean interpreted lite- 



346 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

rally, there was a freshness in the Asiatic style of thought, 
and a happiness in the illustration, which reached every heart. 
For example, when Dr. Dean intimated to him that some 
friends had contributed money to constitute him a life mem- 
ber of the missionary society, he replied on the instant : 
u Fathers and brethren : I could not understand your kind- 
ness to me, a poor, unworthy stranger, did I not know your 
elder brother, who paid the price of his blood that I, who was 
his enemy, might be a life member of heaven." 

They arrived in Detroit while the deep religious interest 
mentioned in Mr. Kendrick's letters was at its height, and 
their visit, doubtless, was one means of its perpetuation and 
extension. That case mentioned above, was not the only 
instance in which their visit was blessed to salvation. The 
manifestation of God's grace in a heathen man, his appearance 
as a Christian in assemblies of the impenitent, who had 
abused their own precious privileges, was frequently the most 
impressive rebuke of their ingratitude and wilfulness. Dr. 
Dean, also, accustomed to preach the gospel among the hea- 
then, presented it in aspects which were fresh and striking 
in a land of Gospel light. The members of the church, and, 
to some extent, Christians generally in the city, received an 
impulse in their religious zeal, which, while it reached out in 
liberal contributions to the perishing heathen, did not over- 
look the perishing around them. 

Mr. and Mrs. Kendrick not only shared the common en- 
thusiasm, but were deeply exercised by a question of personal 
duty, which is thus referred to in a letter to Dr. Kendrick, 
dated November 13, 1845 : " I have just had a letter from 
cousin S. K. Everett, in answer to one which I wrote to him 
on the subject of business in China. My matters here would 
not prevent my leaving if an opening should present itself. 
I was desirous to get information in regard to China, think- 
ing I might possibly serve a double purpose there. My dear 
F. is very anxious to go and do good. What thinks my 
father of it V It is to be regretted that the correspondence 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 347 

relating to this question has not been preserved, not merely 
for the light it wouid have thrown upon an important step 
in our friend's history ; but, still more, because it would have 
enabled us to present an important practical question before 
the Christian public. Dr. Dean had urged upon Mr. K. the 
important service that might be rendered to the work of 
evangelization by missionary merchants and mechanics. 
That beloved missionary might do a great service to the 
cause in which his energies have been exhausted, if, from the 
retirement into which that exhaustion has forced him, he 
would, by the use of his still vigorous pen, bring this ques- 
tion fairly before the churches. 

We have no record before us of the considerations which 
led Mr. Kendrick to abandon a project in which all his own 
sympathies, and those of Mrs. K., were warmly enlisted. 
We know that amongst these, was the almost insuperable 
objection to his removal from this country in the failing 
health of his venerable father. Silas was now an only son. 
His sister Cordelia, who alone was left to share the tender 
care of that father's declining years, was engaged to be mar- 
ried to Mr. Peck, who, at the time of which we speak, had 
just completed a course of theological studies, and with the 
highest promise of usefulness was about to go forth as a 
preacher of the gospel. At the time that Silas was weighing 
the claims of China upon his services as a Christian man of 
business, Mr. Peck was in earnest consultation with his 
parents and other friends as to the propriety of devoting 
himself to missionary labor in the same field. 

We find a letter from Cordelia to Silas in the midst of 
these deliberations, in which she says : " Mr. Peck received 
a communication from the Corresponding Secretary of the 
Foreign Missionary Board, inviting him to visit Boston, to 
meet with the board. He will go home next week to consult 
his parents, and at that time the final decision will probably 
be made ; after which, if it be in the affirmative, he will pro- 
ceed to Boston.' God only knows what may be the issue. 



348 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

May it be for his honor and glory. In regard to myself, 
Silas, ought I to leave my afflicted father in his present con- 
dition ? I am conscious of such an entire want of adapted- 
ness, and of the ardent piety indispensable to missionary life ; 
I am afraid to open my lips lest I may influence Mr. Peck. 
I know you will feel for me and pray for me." 

In all the circumstances of the case, Silas arrived at a clear 
and decided conviction that duty bound him to his native 
land, and God in his providence opened up his way to the 
establishment in business at Detroit, which has already been 
mentioned. Mr. Peck subsequently abandoned the thought 
of going to China, for reasons given in another part of this 
volume ; reasons in which the Board of the Missionary Union 
fully acquiesced. 

During his last illness, Dr. Kendrick performed the mar- 
riage ceremony on two occasions of great interest to himself. 
The first is announced in a letter to Silas, dated June 6th, 
1846: "I made an extra effort on Tuesday and walked over 
to Mr. Chubbuck's, and solemnized the marriage of Dr. Jud- 
son to Miss Emily Chubbuck." The other was the marriage 
of Mr. Linus M. Peck to his own devoted daughter, on 
September 17th, 1846. This marriage, instead of withdraw- 
ing a daughter from her place of attendance on a suffering 
father, made a most welcome addition of an affectionate son 
to share the labor of love ; for they continued to reside 
beneath the paternal roof, while Mr. Peck supplied the pulpit 
of a neighboring church. 

The affection which bound Silas to his sister was of great 
strength and tenderness. It borrowed new tenderness from 
her position near the sick bed of their father; and while 
it may be said that her devotion to the venerable sufferer 
presents one of the most exalted pictures of filial piety on 
record, it may also be said that the relation of brother and 
sister has rarely been exhibited in a more attractive light 
than in the correspondence of these two, when the letters of 
Silas were written amidst the clangor of machinery and the 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 3-±9 

cares of an extensive business, and the letters of his sister 
during her night watches by the bedside of the father they 
both loved so well. Her union with Mr. Peck was an 
occasion of much happiness to Silas. They were already 
brothers ; and the union which gave an outward form to the 
reality was an occasion of mutual congratulation. How 
soon and how sadly so many fair hopes were blighted by Mr. 
Peck's death, is elsewhere related. The gushing tenderness 
which from that hour of premature widowhood appears in 
the correspondence of brother and sister, is not for the eye 
of strangers. Xay, it is not for the eye of friends ; and no 
loving heart will complain that it is left in sacred silence. 

An affecting correspondence between Silas and his father, 
extending through all these years of suffering, remains. But 
multiplied extracts from it would only be a reiteration of 
expressions of that mutual affection and confidence which 
appears prominently through all the relations of a lifetime, 
only gainiDg tenderness from anticipated separation, and 
assuming a tone of heavenliness as it approaches the con- 
fines of mortality. " You have not been out of my thoughts 
an hour," Silas writes, " or scarcely a moment while waking, 
and in my sleep I dream of being at your bedside." Again 
he says, " We feel truly grateful for the great favor God is 
showing us in sparing you so long; and we rejoice that you 
are able to say that it is wise and good that your sufferings 
should not end yet, though your spirit would say, ' It is 
better to depart and be with Christ.' " And again : " I can- 
not forget your sufferings, nor lay me down to sleep without 
thinking of your sleepless nights. Yet amid all, God is bet- 
ter to you than all your friends ; and instead of murmuring, 
I stop to ask, would man be more merciful than the God and 
father of our Lord Jesus Christ? It is enough for us to 
know that the leading attribute revealed in all his dealings 
with his children is love. May I know it in the day of trial 
and suffering, as you seem to know it now !" 

30 



350 LIFE OF SILAS K. KENDEICK. 



CHAPTER VI. 



THE CLOSING SCENES OF LIFE. 



The school in which Silas N. Kendrick was trained, was 
eminently calculated to prepare him for a life of earnest, 
practical activity in the service of the Master. The temper 
of the times ; the spirit of enterprise which had been fos- 
tered among Baptists, called in the providence of God to 
take a prominent place in the work of evangelizing the 
heathen, and aroused to strenuous effort to promote theo- 
logical education in the ranks of their own ministry ; and the 
multiplied agencies of Christian benevolence which were 
called into energetic life about the commencement of this 
century — all these were telling upon the rising generation at 
the period of his boyhood. The memoir of Dr Kendrick, 
which shows the part which he acted in these various 
movements, will serve to prove that in his family, all these 
influences must have operated in their most concentrated 
force. We may judge of the instructions given to such a 
family, by the counsels which pervade his letters to his son, 
from the day he left the paternal roof ; and we find, every- 
where, accompanying his common-sense views of the business 
relations of life, faithful admonitions, not only to devote some 
portion of the fruits of his labors to the promotion of reli- 
gious and benevolent objects, but to make these exalted 
interests the aim and incentive of a life of industry — " to do 
all in the name of the Lord Jesus." Nor was it alone by 
counsels and instructions, regarding the duty of a Christian, 
that Dr. Kendrick sought to direct the course and stimulate 
the zeal of his son. The letters of the good man, frequently 
long and painstaking, though addressed to a youth, and 
written amid the pressing cares of his responsible office, 



LIFE OF SILAS NT. K E N D R I C K. 351 

contain minute accounts of the condition of the institution 
at Hamilton, and of the results of its operation ; and from 
his extensive correspondence with missionaries, and with 
those who were at the head of these great enterprises, he 
gathers such particulars as would be most likely to interest 
a young man, and impress him with a sense of their im- 
portance. These letters could scarcely have been more 
painstaking, had they been addressed to the wealthy and 
influential, with a view to secure their co-operation. The 
effects of this training were abundantly manifest in the future 
course of the son. 

During the years which are covered by the incidents re- 
corded in the last chapter, Silas had been called to the office 
of a deacon by the unanimous voice of the church. He 
wrote to his father : " I wrote to you the day previous to the 
ordination of deacons in our church. I was permitted to go 
forward, feeling a deep sense of my own unworthiness, but a 
good degree of calmness and submission, trusting in Him 
whose grace alone can fit me to bear such a part in his own 
work. Mr. Dean came in from Jackson, with Fanny, and 
spent one night, and has gone west again. I was glad to 
have him present at the ordination." We have already quoted 
the estimate of his character as a deacon by one of his pastors, 
and all who have held that relation would subscribe it. He 
filled the office well and " purchased to himself a good degree 
and great boldness in the faith." His influence in the church 
was always of the most salutary character. In times of trial 
and perplexity his calm judgment often pointed to the correct 
decision ; and especially when harmony was disturbed and 
peace threatened, his loving spirit and conciliatory address 
poured oil on the troubled waters. The poor and friendless, 
the widow and orphan, always found in him a considerate, 
judicious and generous friend. A gentleman who was for 
some years in his employment writes, "I used to ride with 
him frequently to the various boats and saw mills lying for a 
mile or two along the river at Detroit, and I can remember 



352 LIFE OF SILAS N. IENDEICK. 

his stopping before little poor-looking houses, and, while I 
held the reins, going in to see some sick man, or some poor 
girl wasting with disease, when I knew he was pressed with 
business, and weighed down with cares. I remember how 

Mrs. 's little girl used to come into the office every 

week, to have Mr. Kendrick make out a bill of the washing 
her mother had done for the boat ; and, though the office 
might be full of men, he never spoke an impatient word, but 
whatever business might be on hand one of us was directed 
to attend to her. " 

We have already spoken of his activity among the clergy, 
and in this connection we may introduce the remarks of a late 
pastor of the church, "A Sunday-school or a bible class could 
scarcely fail to prosper in his hands, such were the love and 
tact that he brought to the work, joined with a very liberal 
degree of the intelligence requisite. Nor could he wait to 
have such work made ready to his hand ; his delight was to 
sally forth upon new territory, and summon around him both 
the work and the co-workers. He had the rare faculty of 
enlisting, interesting and retaining others as joint laborers 
with himself in a Christian undertaking. He could put him- 
self out of sight and yet remain the principal spring of those 
activities in which others seemed to be the leaders." 

Decided in his own convictions of Christian truth, he was 
not restrained in his Christian sympathies, and was a hearty 
co-operator in all proper plans for the relief either of temporal 
or spiritual wants in the community. The Orphan Asylum 
was especially an institution which enlisted all his interest. 
But it is not permitted to us to enlarge upon these activities. 
There is one little incident, however, which we relate, as it 
seems due to the parties in it, who, widely separated as they 
were in many particulars, were one in the faith of the gospel. 
In the letter of Dr. Duffield, given in a previous chapter, he 
speaks of " a Sunday-school in which Mr. Kendrick had been 
associated with the late excellent and eminently devoted 
Christian, Mrs. Cass." That lady, the wife of General Cass, 



LIFE OF SILAS X. KENDRICK. 353 

was indeed a model of pious, humble and unostentatious 
Christian activity. One of those who do good by stealth, and 
not merely by the easy charity of contributing money, but by 
devoting time and personal labor to every good work. Such 
a course and character were not sacred from the impertinence 
of political partisanship. During an exciting political agita- 
tion, when her husband's name was before the public, as a 
candidate for the presidency, an editor of an opposition paper 
seized upon an announcement by the secretary of the Orphan 
Asylum of a meeting of the directors of that institution at 
her house, to make the basest insinuations regarding the 
motives of her benevolent activities, as designed to gain 
political capital for her husband. Though Mr. Kendrick's 
political sympathies were all with the party of which the 
paper was the organ, he departed from his usual course of 
abstinence from all public interference in such matters, and 
wrote a cordial vindication of the Christian lady, and an 
indignant rebuke of the petty malice of the attack. The 
following is an extract from his letter to the proprietors 
of the paper in question : " I was pained to see the enclosed 
paragraph in your paper of yesterday. I am aware that it 
was called out by the fact having been communicated to you 
that Mrs. Cass attended a small missionary Sunday-school, 
in a remote and long-neglected part of the city, where her 
interest has been enlisted since its organization, more than a 
year ago. And when she was too feeble to attend in person 
she sent ten dollars to purchase books for the same school. 
It is also known that her house has been open for the meet- 
ings of the Orphan Association ever since her return from 
France, and, mainly, because her health would not admit of 
her going out to meet the association elsewhere. 

" I find no fault with you for calling Sunday-schools and 
Orphan associations ' little matters,' for I fear that you are 
at so great a moral distance from them, as scarcely to discern 
them. But if you can descend to things so vile as to impugn 
the motives of a pious Sundav-school teacher, and follow 

30* 



35i LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 

with jour political poison the charitable and truly philan- 
thropic acts of a Christian lady, who seeks only, as she has 
ever done, to benefit the orphans and ignorant children of our 
city, you will not leave such corrupt effusions at my door. 
Send your bill to-morrow morning, and allow me to say, that 
it is my happiness to believe, that more good will result to 
the world from these ' little matters,' than from your whole 
political career." 

The remaining years of Mr. Kendrick's life, during which 
he pursued the business career, indicated in the former 
chapter, were filled up with active service, the character of 
which may be judged by what has already been related. The 
narrow limits to which this sketch is confined forbids no 
attempt to follow them out in detail. His earnestness in his 
business life was prompted, not by the desire to accumulate 
wealth, but to obtain the command of money to advance the 
great objects of Christian benevolence. The sums of money 
he expended when his business was prosperous, in relieving 
the needy and aiding the deserving, can never be known by 
mortals. His contribution to the more public enterprises of 
religion were on the moSt liberal scale, and the opportunity 
of making them was obtained by reducing his private 
expenses far below what men in his position usually con- 
sider necessary, although there was no more hospitable home 
than his. The disposal which he made of his property by 
will, at a time when he was considered a wealthy man, also 
showed with what views he had been toiling through so many 
years of sickness and infirmity. One who knew him well 
says, " If I had seen him refuse to give to a really charitable 
object, I should have been as much startled as if I had heard 
him break out in an oath." 

The labors of his father, and his own disposition to aid and 
encourage the young and friendless, made it an object of 
special interest with him to assist poor students, and pro- 
mote the views of promising young men who were looking 
forward to the Christian ministry. He had scarcely got 



LIFE OF SILAS N. K END KICK. 355 

fairly embarked in business, until we find him corresponding 
with his father regarding the expenses of a young protege at 
the institution at Hamilton : and there are several promising 
ministers, who are indebted to him, under God, for the educa- 
tion which fitted them for the places of usefulness they occupy. 
One of them writes to Mr. Kendrick, " God is widening my 
influence steadily, and I trust for good and not for evil. I 
do hope the expenditure and care of Mr. Kendrick on my 
behalf, will return to him in a life .of usefulness and the con- 
version of many men." While he supplied their temporal 
wants, he maintained a friendly correspondence with them. 
Some of his letters to these young men lie before us, full of 
fatherly wisdom and tenderness. He wrote to one, for 
example, whose mind had been disturbed by doctrinal dis- 
cussions and speculations. " Perhaps the Spirit is leaving 
you in the dark because you have been trying to fathom 
unrevealed truth. Be patient, my dear brother, God will 
reveal all to you in his own good time, but it may be not in 
this world. If he has called you to be a teacher of righteous- 
ness, he will try your faith, and teach you to take his word 
as it is. You may be tempted a good deal too, for Satan may 
want to sift you. Did you think lie could not find you out 
in your secret retreat, and even while you were studying 
God's word, try to make you doubt what seemed hard to 
understand." 

Again he writes " I am doing only my duty. The gold 
and silver are the Lord's. He will not allow me to stow it 
away in a napkin, nor use it for self-gratification. I once 
wanted to be rich and the fire burned up the whole, and now 
I am trying to keep it out of the fire. I am pleased to have 
you tell me when }^ou need money. While I have it, it is 
yours as much as mine." 

Again, in 1853, he writes : " My treasures are in heaven, 
and far richer and better than when I had them here. I 
have been strongly tempted to buy a house this spring ; but 
I want to give five thousand dollars to Hamilton, and two 



356 LIFE OF SILAS K. KENDRIC-K. 

thousand dollars to Kalamazoo, before I put any thing to the 
score of comfort. I am afraid, and have little desire to use 
means for selfish ends. I am too near the account of my 
stewardship." 

The materials are not within our reach for a full statement 
of his important services to the public interest of the Baptist 
denomination. Nor, if they were, would we regard it as 
either agreable to his character, or serviceable to others, to 
parade them here. We have sought to relate not what will 
constitute a funeral panegyric, but what will constitute a be- 
coming memorial of departed excellence, which may declare 
the glory of him to whom all the praise is due, and stimu- 
late and encourage the diligence of his people. 

The following extract from a letter of the Rev. Geo. W. 
Harris, editor of the Michigan Christian Herald, expresses 
his views of Mr. Kendrick's public services to the Baptist 
denomination. After referring to his liberal support of mis- 
sionary and educational movements, and his connection with 
the paper which Mr. Harris has long and ably edited, that 
gentleman continues : " I have occasionally met him at the 
meetings of the convention and board ; more frequently at the 
meetings of the executive committees. On such occasions 
his advice, which was always sought, always had weight. 
One thing which contributed to this was the fact, that his 
education and habits had made him eminently a practical 
man, rather than a man of mere abstractions. His familiarity 
with practical life, combined with a strong and ready sense 
of duty, which neither left him long at a loss for an object 
on which to exercise his benevolence, or for a suitable method 
in which to make it applicable, made his position on the com- 
mittee one of great advantage to the cause it had in charge. 
With a ruling passion for doing good, and with a practical, 
straight-forward, business man's education, his views and 
remarks tended to the accomplishment of ends by direct, 
open and unexceptionable means. By the balances of a practi- 
cal wisdom, and sound Christian morality, he could usually 



LIFE OF SILAS K. KENDEICK. 357 

pronounce the best judgment as to what was the fitting 
course to pursue on new and difficult occasions of inquiry. 
There was in him little tendency to extravagance, or specu- 
lation, but in the spirit of tolerance and conciliation toward 
men in whom this spirit was manifiest, he was firm in main- 
taining his convictions. I regarded him as one of our wisest 
counsellors, and look upon his death as a loss which will be 
long felt far beyond the limits of the city and church of his 
adoption." 

After three and a half years of intense bodily anguish, and 
remarkable spiritual peace, the venerable father, whose love 
formed so important an element in the formation of the ad- 
mirable character we are imperfectly depicting, fell asleep in 
Jesus. Long as it had been looked for, the event came to 
his afflicted family in all the fresh force of a sudden bereave- 
ment. No length of sickness can prepare the heart to part, 
without a pang, with those we love ; and nothing but an 
actual experience of it, can enable us to realize what the 
world will be when they are removed from it. But if ever 
mourners could bring home to their hearts all the blessed 
consolations of Christian hope, they could who stood around 
the grave of Nathaniel Kendrick. Those very considerations 
which rendered his life most precious to them, furnished the 
fullness of comfort in his death. We should vainly attempt 
to express in words, the holy endearment which thence for- 
ward bound Silas to his young, widowed sister, left with him- 
self the only representative of a once large and happy family 
circle. In addition to the peculiar tenderness of her own 
claims upon his affection, she now occupied also his father's 
place in his care and correspondence, and no sister could 
have been more worthy of the love of such a brother. 

The notice of her life and character in another part of this 
volume, renders it unnecessary to dwell upon either in this 
place. Her brief career on earth was terminated by a few 
happy years of eminent usefulness in Cleveland, where her 
memory is fondly cherished. Silas was hastily summoned 



358 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

to her death-bed, but arrived too late to exchange the last 
farewell. Two days after her death he wrote : "lam indeed 
an orphan. Alone, alone ; the unworthy representative of a 
once large and happy family. I feel like a traveler left be- 
hind of all his companions — a wanderer alone. But I trust 
the gates will soon open to me also, and I, through Christ, 
shall be admitted where 'my best friends and kindred dwell.' 
I am glad that this world is not always to be my home." 

The shades of night seem to be closing in upon the day of 
life, whose activities and trials are hastily recorded in these 
chapters. Father and sister, whose affections constituted 
strong ties to the realities of a passing life, were removed, and 
now constituted additional attractions heavenward. The fee- 
ble health of his beloved wife constantly threatened the sever- 
ance of the strongest of them all. Though success promised, 
at last, to crown his worldly enterprises, it had in itself now 
few attractions. Successive changes by death, removal of 
residence, or change of condition, were passing over the 
society with which his earthly joys and hopes had been 
linked. There was, indeed, no relaxation of his zeal and affec- 
tionate earnestness in the service to which his life was con- 
secrated. If affliction and trial had imparted a mellower 
tone to his character, the light still shone only purer and 
more heavenly in its lustre. But still the shades of evening 
were settling down upon the day, and while he realized that, 
in his own words, he was drawing near to the account of his 
stewardship, his Christian friends realized that he was draw- 
ing nearer to Christ, in close communion and an advancing 
conformity to his likeness. 

We have purposely kept it, for the most part, out of sight, 
as he himself carefully did throughout the years of his more 
active service, but it remains to be told, that during all these 
years he had been an invalid and so severe a sufferer from 
bodily pain, that nothing save the greatest resoluteness of 
spirit, sustained by the grace of God, could have enabled him 
to suppress the murmuring of impatience, and resist the pros- 



LIFE OF SILAS KT. K E N D R I C K. 359 

tration of disease. Perhaps we cannot better present this 
aspect of the history of his life, than by inserting here, a let- 
ter from the faithful physician who ministered relief to him, 
through weary years of suffering, and who, when his office 
as a physician ceased, remained by the side of his friend 
through the long hours of his dying, and counted the last 
throb of his heart. He says : " You wish me to make a state- 
ment of any incident illustrative of our late friend, Mr. Ken- 
drick's character, which, in course of my acquaintance with 
him, may have come to my knowledge. This is an easy and 
yet, in one sense, a difficult task. I have not time nor abil- 
ity to write a book, and to say all that I know of his extra- 
ordinary virtues would fill very many pages, indeed, it would 
make a book. I must confine myself to generalities. 

"I have, as his physician, seen him suffer more I think than 
any other man I ever attended. You are perhaps not aware, 
that for years our friend labored under the influence of a dis- 
ease of the most painful and harassing nature, calculated 
more than almost any other of the ills to which man is sub- 
ject, to sour the temper and engender a gloomy, nervous, 
and perverse disposition. I say perhaps you are not aware 
of this fact, because I know that from his manner, no one 
even of his most intimate acquaintances, would ever have 
suspected it. Always sweet, gentle, kind, in deportment 
towards all about him. even when suffering to a degree that 
would have confined almost any man to his chamber, and his 
bed. Mr. Kendrick was out among the sick, ministering to 
their necessities of both body and soul. I have often seen 
him at the bedside of the sick, when I knew him to be the 
greater sufferer of the two. 

"He had a peculiar way of aiding the sick and poor. 
He generally succeeded in making them feel that they were 
conferring a benefit upon him, instead of receiving it from 
him. Many instances have occurred where families have 
needed medical aid, in which he has induced them to feel that 
in permitting his family physician to attend them, they were 



360 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDKICK. 

heaping a load of obligation upon him, though it was done at 
Mr. Kendrick's expense. 

" In all his sufferings, he never, in my presence, manifested 
the slightest impatience, except after I told him he must 
soon die ; and then he exhibited such a desire to be released, 
that I felt it my duty to suggest the propriety of waiting 
patiently, and permitting God's will in relation to him to be 
fully accomplished. That death-bed scene will scarcely be 
forgotten by any one who witnessed it, certainly not by me. 
His kindly feelings for others were as manifest on that occa- 
sion as on any other, I believe, during his life. I could not 
repeat all he said to me, from time to time, as I sat by him. 
Indeed, it would not be proper to do so. Suffice it to say 
that till his heart was still, or to the very last moment of 
consciousness, he was laboring for the well-being of others. 

" I should have complied with your request sooner in send- 
ing you this brief statement, but could not make up my mind 
what to say. So much might be said of so good a man, that 
it seems wrong to say so little, and yet I have neither time 
nor ability to say the thousandth part of what my heart 
prompts to relate. 

" Yours truly, 

"G. M. CLARKE." 

The habitual endurance of severe pain always marks 
itself in the countenance, voice, and manner of the sufferer, 
in accordance with its effects upon the character, and the 
spirit in which it is endured. When received in an unsancti- 
fied spirit, and when it arouses a rebellious heart, there are 
few countenances more repulsive than that in which it writes 
its deep lines. The voice becomes querulous and discordant, 
and the whole manner is overbearing and misanthropical. 
On the other hand, when it is received in meekness, and, 
through the grace of God, accomplishes its purifying and 
ennobling design, though the countenance may still painfully 
excite our sympathy, it is yet attractive ; suffering there 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 361 

leaves its traces in that cast of countenance which we recog- 
nize as saintly ; and, while the tones of the voice are sub- 
dued, they are full of pathos and tenderness. It is such a 
voice that can best convey the assurance of sympathy, and 
can best become the vehicle of consolation to the sorrowing. 
The friend from whose observations, during the period he 
spent in his employments, we have already drawn, remarked 
thus of Mr. Kendrick : " The look of benevolence in his 
bright, dark eye, the lines of exhaustion and suffering in his 
worn face, and the whole-souled earnestness of his manner, 
made his advice,- entreaties, and admonitions, wonderfully 
effective. Pain was sanctified to him in this respect, also ; it 
removed from his face, voice, and manner every vestige of 
flippancy, pride, vanity, heartlessness, and added new power 
to his words. His men never wanted him to speak twice 
when giving orders. A word from him was final ; it meant 
something, and that something they went about doing." 

Mr. Ten Brook has remarked in his letter, that Mr. Ken- 
drick was not a public speaker, and the remark is most true 
in the ordinary use of the term. But those who have heard 
him speak in a social, religious gathering, or address a Sun- 
day-school, would yet say that he was an eloquent speaker. 
The childlike ingenuousness, the simple earnestness of his 
manner, the general happiness of his remarks, and the musi- 
cal pathos of his voice, arrested the attention of old and 
young alike, and rarely failed to move even the most callous 
heart. No one could recite a touching incident with greater 
effect, nor utter more impressively a solemn warning than he. 
There is one attractive feature of his social intercourse, to 
which justice has not been done in previous remarks and 
quotations, — the chastened gaiety, the Christian cheerfulness, 
which never degenerated into levity, and a certain refined 
playfulness, which even his later sufferings did not extinguish, 
and which never seemed inconsistent with his Christian dig- 
nity. If space permitted more extended quotations from his 
letters, as fine specimens of playful humor, may be culled from 

31 



362 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

them, as are to be found in the more celebrated epistolary 
literature in our language ; though above all other character- 
istics, these letters excel in the skillful but artless expression 
of ardent affection. 

These letters in the latter years of his life, show the rapid 
progress of his Christian character to maturity. An exalted 
spiritual-mindeclness, a deep abasement of self, and a desire 
to magnify the grace and the perfection of Immanuel. We 
have spoken of his clear views of the ground of a sinner's 
acceptance, in the perfect and everlasting righteousness of 
Christ ; but he had also learned that in this also is the ground 
of the believer's abiding comfort, strength, and progress. 
We must not only believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, that we 
may be justified by the faith of Christ, nor by the works of 
the law, but we must hold the beginning of our confidence 
steadfast unto the end. The life which we live in the flesh 
must be a life of faith in the Son of God, who loved us and 
gave himself for us. Reposing here, amid increasing suffer- 
ings and multiplying perplexities, Mr. Kendrick enjoyed un- 
interrupted, nay, ever-increasing comfort ; and, in the full 
assurance of faith, approached the last conflict, when the 
same confidence marvelously sustained his soul. 

From the year 1852, when he was brought very near to 
the gates of death, the painful and hopeless disease of which 
his physician speaks was slowly but steadily accomplishing 
its work. Its progress was perhaps accelerated by the har- 
assing cares which the approach of the commercial crisis of 
1857 brought upon him, in his relation to such an enterprise 
as the Detroit Locomotive Works. We may pause in our 
narrative to trace the progress of that enterprise. After the 
fire, in which the establishment of the Detroit Iron Company 
perished, Mr. Kendrick proceeded with the erection of a ma- 
chine shop and foundery, in which he commenced business in 
May, 1847. During that month he employed four hands, but 
the number was gradually increased to thirty-eight in De- 
cember following. Under the firm of Degraff & Kendrick, a 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 363 

prosperous business was conducted, and additional buildings 
were erected, at a cost of from twenty to thirty thousand 
dollars. The interest of the firm was merged in the Detroit 
Locomotive Company in 1854. This joint-stock company, 
with an ample capital, extended the buildings, and equipped 
them with the most perfect machinery for executing the 
largest contracts. The extent to which the business ex- 
panded, may be judged from the fact, that, at one time, they 
employed two hundred and fifty hands. The progress was, 
as we have mentioned, temporarily arrested, and about the 
same time the state of Mr. Kendrick's health was such that 
his physicians urged him to exchange the severities of the 
northern winter for the more genial climate of South Car- 
olina. 

Accompanied by Mrs. Kendrick, he spent a few months at 
Charleston, where the fraternal attentions of his cousin, the 
Rev. Ryland Kendrick, left nothing undone that could pro- 
mote his comfort or recovery. After his return to Detroit, 
an appointment to superintend the erection of a light-house 
led him to a pleasant island in Lake Erie for the summer 
months, where he seemed rapidly to regain much of his 
former elasticity and energy. The improvement was how- 
ever of short duration. Returning infirmities warned him 
to escape on the approach of winter, and in December, 1858, 
he set out for the west and south, in the vain pursuit of 
health. In the last letter he wrote to his beloved wife, he 
thus speaks of the objects of his last journey, though, be- 
yond what is there expressed, he probably had an eye in his 
journeyings to the openings which might be providentially 
presented for a new business career, should his health be pre- 
served, and the business in Detroit not speedily recover from 
its prostration. " jS'ow, dearest," he says, " I must tell you 
my plans, and get your full concurrence by return mail, if 
you can give it. I propose to go to Milwaukie to-morrow, 
and spend the Sabbath ; then to go to Wakesha on Monday, 
and spend one night with A. to get full advice and medicine, 



364 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

and return here on Tuesday, to go on to St. Louis, Memphis, 
Natchez, probably as far as Texas and the Gulf, and be ab- 
sent six, or, it may be, eight weeks. I am confident my 
health will be improved by it. You know I grow better 
every day I travel. My only grief is, to be so long absent 
from you and my sweet home, and the loving friends who 
almost break my heart with their kind sympathy." 

His travels and his expectations were arrested at Mil- 
waukie, the first stage of his projected tour. His sickness 
assumed a new and startling aspect. He seemed to under- 
stand the warning, and his first strong impulse was to reach 
home. Had his friends at Milwaukie known the actual state 
of his health, they would never have consented to his at- 
tempt to travel. With his long practised self-control, and 
with a resolution which probably had at its foundation a con- 
viction that he was hastening home to die, he undertook and 
persevered in the journey. He reached Detroit in a state of 
complete prostration, and his alarming symptoms at first 
left but one conclusion open to the stricken family circle, into 
the bosom of which he was received with greater tenderness 
than ever. The calm tranquillity of his soul, his indomitable 
spirit, and the singular tenacity of life which his apparently 
slender and exhausted constitution had often manifested, pre- 
sented to his physician a ground of hope, where, with a man 
of a different character and temperament, the case would 
have been considered desperate. All that medical skill and 
tender nursing could do, ministered to the hopeful side, and 
alternate hopes and fears agitated the loving hearts around 
him, while his own heart was unruffled by either, but placidly 
awaited the will of the Sovereign Disposer. In their hearts, 
hope was rather strengthened by the lapse of time, but, 
though he avoided any expression which might discourage 
those who loved him, it is evident to them, on a review of 
all that transpired, that he expected a speedy release from 
all his sufferings. 

The condition in which he lay rendered it necessary to 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDEICK. 365 

protect him from the distraction and exhaustion of company 
and conversation. And from the earlier portion of his sick- 
ness, we have little information regarding the exercises of 
his mind, except as these were manifested in the unexam- 
pled peace, patience, and affection of his deportment. If, in 
what remains, the record of his last hours is chiefly confined 
to his intercourse with one visitor, it is because the intense 
feeling of those who occupied the inner circle of his attend- 
ance upon his death-bed, renders it impossible for them 
either to recall or relate minutely what passed. There was 
one who had years before been united to him by the tenderest 
ties of mutual affection and Christian relationship, who for 
years had been, not estranged, but separated from him, for 
whom he sent towards the close of his sickness, and in whose 
mind the impression of two visits to his sick bed, and of his 
death-bed scene will remain among the most permanent of 
his recollections. 

When this friend approached his bed side, his eye kindled 
with its wonted fire, and his languid countenance was suf- 
fused with the old glow of affection. After brief greetings, 
in which all the past relations were revived and restored, in 
the fullness of fraternal confidence, he at once spoke of his 
own spiritual condition. " I have longed to see you and to 
tell you of all I have discovered and experienced of the love 
of my Saviour. My Saviour," he repeated with emphasis ; 
" This has been a time of more oppressive sickness than I 
ever before endured, and my thoughts have often been feeble 
and obscured ; I have been unable to think continuously, but 
with all this, I have never enjoyed such satisfactory views of 
the love of God in Christ." His remarks, it will be under- 
stood, were interrupted and suggested by questions and 
observations on the part of his friend, which need not be 
repeated. He spoke with earnestness and remarkable clear- 
ness, of the perfect peace and security of being "in Christ," 
"It is not merely," he said, "through Christ, but in Christ. 
How much I have lost by not learning that distinction 

31* 



366 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDKICK. 

sooner !' I do not know what may be the issue of this sick- 
ness, but I know that my Father's will must be done, and that 
is enough for one who has known his love." A sense 
of what was due to his state, rendered it obligatory to bring 
a delightful interview to a close, while he was yet reluctant to 
stop speaking with ardor on that theme. " We must, at all 
events,", he said, "enjoy the privilege once more, of pouring 
out our hearts together at a throne of grace. What seasons 
of heavenly communion the sound of your familiar voice 
recalls ! Will our voices retain any thing of their present 
tones when we join in the everlasting song?" 

At another interview he reverted to the scenes of their 
former intercourse and spoke of mutual friends. To some 
who yet live he sent messages of kind remembrance. He 
spoke of some who had fallen asleep, who were dear to both, 
and then dwelt with great fervor upon the indissoluble one- 
ness of those who are in Christ. " I have thought with 
great pleasure," he said, "not that we were one, but that 
we are one. Death cannot dissolve it; we are one company, 
one family;" and then he repeated, as though to himself, and 
forgetful of the presence of others, with a clear voice and 
with such inimitable grace, that it was impossible to inter- 
rupt him, though the efforts seemed beyond his power, or at 
least beyond what was proper in his condition, the whole of 
the hymn — 

" Come let us join our friends above 

Who have obtained the prize, 
And on the eagle wings of love 

To joy celestial rise." 

In reply to some remark regarding the wisdom and love of 
God manifested in the kind and the measure of trial he 
metes out to his children, he replied : " You remind me of a 
saying of father's, when I last visited him. One night when I 
watched alone by his bed of suffering, he had a night of 
greater pain and restlessness than usual. I looked upon his 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 367 

exhausted frame, still tossed about with anguish, and his 
meek, patient look, which was more touching because not a 
word of complaint escaped his lips, and I could scarcely 
endure the sight. The night was far spent, and still there 
was no respite. I laid my head upon his pillow, and my 
hand upon his aching brow, and said, ' my father, I love 
you as I never loved you before. How I wish I could take 
your pain upon me, that you might find an hour's rest !' and 
he answered — you know how father would speak then, ' No 
my son, no, not if it were possible. I could not spare a sin- 
gle pang or ache. I know you love me, but he who is doing 
this loves me infinitely better than you do, and if it could 
be spared he would not let his poor child suffer an instant. 
It is not an enemy that is afflicting me. This is love's doing, 
infinite love, and I cannot spare the blessing such love is 
bestowing.' " He paused, and listened to some remark, in 
harmony with the sentiment, and then resumed the subject, 
" I have been filled with such unutterable peace and wonder 
as I have lain here, and thought of the love of God to me, 
me of all others. With such objects of love in his countless 
holy ones, that he should love me. And while he is reign- 
ing in everlasting glory, over the wide universe, and filling 
so many hearts with love, and listening to all their praises, 
and sustaining and guiding all that universe of worlds, and 
watching over all his creatures, the very least as well as the 
very greatest, and directing all events, and carrying on his 
vast designs, that he should still be watching over me as I lie 
here, a poor, worthless man, with a love as full and a care as 
perfect as though I were the only one he had to love or care 
for. his love — his love, and to think that I was 
redeemed with the precious blood of Christ ; that Christ upon 
that throne is mine ; that he has sent his Spirit to take 
possession of my heart, as his ; that I am his. How easy 
it is to lie in his hands, and leave all to him ! What ever- 
lasting security in Christ." And so at intervals of conver- 
sation, with an eloquence and power which cannot be trans- 



368 LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 

ferred to paper, and which can never be heard, save by the 
death-bed of saints. He continued to speak of that theme 
which will fill up eternity with praises. There was another 
precious season of prayer, and then the renewed expression 
of love and joy and gratitude. He perhaps realized that if 
these were not the words of final parting, at least the time 
for these words was at hand. He reluctantly acquiesced in 
the propriety of bringing the interview to a close, and to 
Mrs. Kendrick's expression of solicitude, he replied : " Oh 
not fatigued but refreshed." 

Thirty hours later his friends were hastily summoned to 
the closing scene. It was about ten o'clock at night — death 
was stamped upon his countenance, which was still lit up 
with intelligence and affection, and which brightened with a 
fresh glow of love as one after another they gathered around 
his bed. They were not common acquaintances, but all of 
them were bound to him by special ties of love or gratitude. 
The remembering fellowships of many years was collected 
there. How many deeds of kindness, hours of sweet com- 
munion, scenes of hallowed delight, relations of heavenly 
tenderness were there recalled. His wife, sustained by 
amazing grace, sat on one side listening, ever and anon, to 
whispered syllables of love and comfort. His physician sat, 
bowed down with the sorrow of a friend, touching his pulse ; 
kind hands attempted to minister relief to weary limbs ; and 
the friends regarded it as a privilege to take a place by his 
pillow in succession, and hold for a few moments the hand 
whose cordial grasp was now relaxed. It seemed as though 
a few minutes must close the scene, but the minutes 
lengthened into hours, and still the patient spirit lingered. 
There was not the appearance of acute pain, but the struggle 
of dissolving nature and a sense of insupportable fatigue, 
which occasionally prompted the prayer for "rest," "rest." 
He was the calmest of all : not one word of impatience or 
complaint ; and occasionally he feebly essayed to be the com- 
forter of the sorrowing. "Let us pray once more," he 



LIFE OF SILAS N. KENDRICK. 369 

whispered to the friend and former pastor, whose interviews 
are above related ; and the company knelt together, and 
poured forth fervent prayers to that God whose love tri- 
umphed even then. A feeble pressure of the offered hand 
at the close of the prayer, intimated the sufferer's fellowship 
in it. "Bless you," he said, " I love you," and, then to the 
whispered question, — " Can I do any thing for you on earth ?" 
— he whispered feebly — " ^so, comfort Fanny, all is well" — 
perhaps among his last distinguishable utterances. . On the 
repetition of some precious promises, from time to time, he 
nodded assent and smiled satisfaction ; but he was fast 
receding from consciousness. 

It would be indelicate and useless to extend the description 
of the scene of pity which was prolonged until three o'clock 
of the afternoon of January 14th, 1859. The friends still 
gathered around, unable to tear themselves from the scene of 
sufferings which they could not alleviate. All was silence, 
save the gasped breathing of him to whom their affections 
clung, and, occasionally, a sob which could not be repressed. 
The parting breath came at longer and longer intervals — a 
sigh — a sudden change flitted across the altered countenance, 
and a look of meaning from the physician told that the great 
heart of Silas ]ST. Kendrick had ceased to beat. The first 
voice by which the silence was broken was the voice of 
prayer, and soon in the unbroken silence of the chamber of 
death lay all that was mortal of one of the noblest of men. 
The longed-for rest was reached. 

It were vain to tell of all the grief the event awakened. 
The whole community showed it, and probably few funerals 
in Detroit have called forth a greater number of all classes — 
none have been accompanied by more true mourners — a 
multitude of those who had been in his employment at 
different times, and a multitude of the young who had 
enjoyed his care and instructions in the Sunday-school were 
among the most afflicted. Those who were best acquainted 
with his history could recognize in the crowd widows and 



370 LIFE OF SILAS N. KEKDEICK. 

orphans whom he had succoured, the poor whom he had 
relieved, and the erring he had reclaimed. Letters of con- 
dolence with Mrs. Kendrick, which of themselves would fill a 
volume, attest the esteem in which he was held by those 
whose esteem is most valuable. 

Our task is done. Alas ! how poorly done ! But it will 
be accepted as the expression of a love which is the foremost 
to recognize the defectiveness of the portrait. 

On the green sloping bank of a little ravine in Elmwood 
Cemetery, Detroit, stands a simple obelisk, the base of which 
bears this inscription : 

IN PEACE. 
SIL^S JKT. K E JTQ 1(1 G K, 

BORN, JANUARY 19, 1814; 
FELL ASLEEP IN JESUS, 

JANUARY 14, 1859. 



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